L5/S1 disc degeneration - can anything be done about this?

[Afternoonsnooze]

A few years ago I had a ct scan due to a kidney cyst.

One of the incidental findings noted was that I have disc degeneration which was seen at the L5/S1 point. Nothing more was mentioned about it or advice given and as I do have some lower back issues (which I’ve just put up with) that kind of made sense to me.

I have recently had a pelvic mri as it has been discovered that I have endometriosis and again the disc degeneration was mentioned. This time it says it is moderate disc changes. The word moderate wasn’t mentioned before.

Tbh, I am getting more frequent lower back issues recently and at 51 and in peri menopause and with endometriosis and adenomyosis, I’ve put it down to that but am starting to think that maybe I should look into this disc degeneration thing a bit more. Can anything be done to help this become worse, can I do anything to help stop this worsening with age? I already keep my weight down, walk a lot and do stretching/yoga type exercises.

Where would be the best place to start? An osteopath?

I would suggest you see a physio specialising in the spine. They will give you strengthening exercises for the supporting muscles and also exercises that flex the area in particular ways.

Also worth bearing in mind that disc degeneration is normal with age.

I wouldn’t touch an osteopath with a barge pole.

Thank you, I will start looking for physios in my area.

I had this but more serious and ended up with a fused spine, extreme I know but it led me to all sorts of research.
Be careful with yoga/pilates type exercise. There is an awful lot of bending and twisting that can agitate the issue.
I have found this website very helpful, lots of free advice - https://fitness4backpain.com/goodie-box/

His website is a bit hectic but his Instagram account is more viewer friendly.

You mention that you are getting increasing lower back issues... see your gp and ask for physio referral - or you can find a private physio.

Or, you could ask if a referral to orthopaedic consultant would be an option.

If you have private healthcare, you can usually go straight to their options for physio.

whenever i have had a x ray for spinal ddd on the nhs it always come back moderate - when i have a private x ray - it always comes back severe -