Degenerative Disc Disease most often occurs in the discs in the lower back (lumbar region) and the neck (cervical region). As we age, spinal discs may break down, or degenerate, causing Degenerative Disc Disease. This can result from a loss of fluid in your discs which makes them thinner, narrowing the space between the vertebrae.

Small cracks in the outer shell of the disc can also cause the disc to bulge which may start the degeneration process. These changes are more likely to occur in cigarette smokers and people who engage in heavy physical work (such as heavy lifting). Those who are overweight are also more likely to suffer from degenerative disc disease.