Degenerative Spine Conditions

Degenerative spine conditions refer to a group of disorders in which the normal structure or function of the spine breaks down over time. These changes often happen with age, wear and tear, or mechanical stress on the spine. With early recognition and the right care, many people can remain active and reduce pain. 

What are degenerative spine conditions? 

Degenerative spine conditions involve gradual changes in the spine that can lead to symptoms and complications. Common forms include: 

• Degenerative disc disease (changes in the discs between vertebrae) 
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve passageways) 
• Osteoarthritis (wear of spinal facet joints) 
• Spondylolisthesis (vertebra slips out of place) 
• Sciatica  
• Herniated or bulging disks 

These conditions may cause pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves and affect how the brain and body communicate.   

Why do they occur? 

Several factors contribute to degenerative spine conditions: 

• Aging – As people get older, discs lose water and height, joints wear down and ligaments thicken.   
• Mechanical stress or injury – Repeated bending, lifting or twisting can accelerate changes.   
• Genetic factors and lifestyle – Being overweight, smoking, or having poor posture may raise risk.   
• Underlying conditions – Conditions such as arthritis, prior spinal surgery or congenital spine differences can lead to degeneration earlier.  

Signs and symptoms to watch for 

The symptoms of degenerative spine conditions vary depending on the location (neck, mid-back or lower back), severity and whether nerves are involved. Typical signs include: 

• Persistent or intermittent back or neck pain that may get worse with movement 
• Pain that radiates into the arms or legs (radiculopathy) 
• Numbness, tingling or weakness in the limbs 
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods 
• Loss of spine flexibility or new spinal deformity 
• In severe cases, bladder or bowel problems if the spinal cord is compressed 

How are degenerative spine conditions diagnosed?

Clinical evaluation 

Your provider will review your medical history, ask about pain patterns and test muscle strength, reflexes and nerve sensation. 

Imaging and diagnostic tests 

• X-rays help assess bone alignment, disc height and joint health 
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) offers detailed views of discs, nerves and spinal cord 
• CT or CT myelogram may be used if the MRI is unclear 
• In some cases, electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies are used 

Learn more about diagnosis and treatment of degenerative spine conditions. 

Treatment options: non-surgical to advanced care 

Conservative treatments 

Many people with degenerative spine conditions improve with non-surgical care, including: 

• Physical therapy to strengthen core and back muscles 
• Activity modification and posture correction 
• Pain-relief medications and anti-inflammatory strategies 
• Epidural or facet joint injections for targeted relief 

Advanced and surgical options 

If conservative care fails or there is serious nerve compression or spinal instability, surgical options may be considered. These may include: 

• Minimally invasive decompression (removal of bone or ligament pressure) 
• Spinal fusion or motion-preserving devices 
• Revision surgery for prior spine procedures 

Learn more about treatment for degenerative spine conditions. 

At Banner Health, our spine team uses advanced imaging, navigation systems and surgical techniques to improve outcomes and speed recovery. 

Living with degenerative spine conditions: what you can do 

To support spine health and reduce progression of degeneration: 

• Stay active with low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming or yoga 
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce load on your spine 
• Use ergonomic work and lifestyle habits (lifting correctly, sitting posture) 
• Stop smoking and manage chronic health issues such as diabetes or arthritis 
• Follow your provider’s plan and attend follow-up visits 

Why choose Banner Health for spine care? 

Banner Health brings together neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, physical therapists, pain management specialists and imaging experts in a comprehensive care team. Our approach includes: 

• Personalized assessment and treatment planning 
• State-of-the-art imaging and surgical tools 
• Emphasis on patient education, recovery and long-term spine health 

If you are experiencing persistent back or neck pain, new weakness or nerve symptoms, or have been told you have a degenerative spine condition, contact Banner Health to schedule an evaluation today.