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Health Information and Tools >  Degenerative disc disease: Fast Facts

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Degenerative disc disease: Fast Facts

Degenerative disc disease: Fast Facts (00:00:34)
Video Transcript

Degenerative disc disease is a term that describes how the spinal discs change as you age.

Your spine is basically a long stack of bones.

These stacked bones are called vertebrae.

The vertebrae are cushioned by small, spongy discs that protect your  spine and keep it flexible.

As you age, the discs can dry out, tear, or crack.

Degenerative disc disease usually happens in the discs in the lower back and the neck.

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