The lumbar spine, or low back, is a remarkably well-engineered structure of interconnecting bones, joints, nerves, ligaments, and muscles all working together to provide support, strength, and flexibility. However, this complex structure also leaves the lower back susceptible to injury and pain. Lower back pain can have any number of causes, but these symptoms may indicate that one may have lumbar degenerative disc disease:
1. Pain that is provoked by activity, then subsides
Sometimes, a symptom of lumbar degenerative disc disease is pain that is provoked by some physical activity such as bending, lifting, or twisting and then it subsides. For instance, if someone’s …show more content…
One reason for this is that sitting places 3 times as much pressure on the discs at the bottom of your spine as standing. So if someone works a sedentary office job, they may be provoking your symptoms simply by going about their daily routine. One way to test whether sitting is exacerbating your symptoms is to alternate between a standing desk and sitting in a chair during your workday.
It is important to note that some patients still feel pain from degenerative disc disease while standing but they may find significant relief while walking.
3. The pain is better when resting in a reclining position
Many people who suffer from lumbar degenerative disc disease find that their symptoms are alleviated by resting in a reclining position. Additionally, others find relief simply by sleeping with a pillow under their knees. This is due to the fact that both positions relieve the stress on your lumbar disc space.
In some cases, patients with degenerative disc disease choose to purchase an adjustable bed—as it can be configured in a number of ways to support your body in a reclining position.
If you suspect your back pain is caused by lumbar degenerative disc disease, make sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor. She or he can help you accurately identify the source of your symptoms—which is the first step when it comes to finding the right course of