Most people will suffer from an episode of minor lower Back pain at some point in their lives, but, for some patients, lower back pain is an indication of a more serious ongoing problem. Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the discs that sit between the vertebrae of the lower spine begin to wear down, creating instability in the lower back or neck. The body will try to compensate for the loss of the disc by creating bone spurs that can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves which leads to pain and numbness. This is the most common root of back pain.Causes and DiagnosisWhile degenerative disc disease is common as one grows older, there are also conditions and injuries that can cause degeneration of the discs to occur more quickly. Osteoarthritis, herniation of discs in the back and spinal injury are all contributing factors to the disease. Obesity and cigarette usage can also effect the health of the discs. The disease is usually diagnosed based on the patient's history and a medical exam. A doctor will look for limitations in the patient's range of motion and examine if damage has occurred in nerve function. After any other condition that might be causing pain, such as tumors or fractures, are ruled out, the doctor will usually diagnose the patient with degenerative disc disease and begin treatment.Treatment and OutcomesManaging pain is the most common method of treating degenerative disc disease. For some, pain can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication or physical therapy. When mobility is limited and pain is effecting the patient's quality of life, surgery to remove the damaged disc can be performed. Spinal fusion is also a typical procedure used to repair damage from degenerative disc disease. For the most severe cases, surgery usually results in a permanent decrease in pain and increase in mobility. While back pain can be severe, degenerative disc disease is a common ailment for which a number of treatment options are available to help patients remain comfortable and active.