Spinal discs are made up of cartilage and provide natural cushioning for the spinal vertebrae. Damage to any of these discs is likely to result in chronic back pain and the location of the pain will depend on the position of the damaged disc. Some of the most common degenerative disc disease symptoms include:

• Pain that worsens with specific movements such as bending or twisting
• Periods of severe pain that come and go
• Pain that radiates to the nearest limb
• Lower back pain (if the degenerated disc is in the lower back)
• Pain in the neck and shoulders (if the degenerated disc is in the upper back)
• Tingling in the legs or fingers which is caused by nerve impingement