Answer :
Final answer:
People with degenerative disc disease should avoid lifting heavy objects improperly, maintain proper posture to reduce shearing forces on the spine, and avoid high-impact activities or extreme neck movements that could exacerbate the condition.
Explanation:
Individuals with degenerative disc disease should avoid certain activities that can exacerbate their condition. Due to the nature of this spinal disease, it is particularly important to avoid actions that put an excessive load or shear force on the spine, as these can lead to further deterioration of the discs or even herniation. A study in Finland pointed out that herniated discs may sometimes be associated with a genetic mutation, indicating a hereditary aspect to the risk.
Activities that involve lifting heavy objects with the back, rather than the legs, should be avoided, as this can create abnormally large forces in the back muscles and spine, causing muscle strain and potential damage to the discs and vertebrae. Those with degenerative disc disease should also be cautious about maintaining a proper posture, particularly if one has an increased curvature of the spine, which leads to higher shearing forces that can injure the discs, especially the lumbosacral disc.
The gel-like nucleus pulposus within the intervertebral discs allows the spine to change shape during movement. However, bending forward or rocking side to side can cause compression and expansion of the disc, and if the anulus fibrosus is weakened, activities such as lifting can lead to herniation, potentially compressing a spinal nerve and causing sciatica or other nerve-related symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable for individuals with cervical spine diseases to avoid extreme neck movements and high-impact activities that could aggravate the condition.
