Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is the name for changes in the discs that cushion the bones of the spine. Discs may gradually lose some of their thickness and flexibility. The American Physical Therapy Association calls degenerative disc disease a common condition and an expected change in the spine over time, and notes that in many cases it doesn't cause any pain. At Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness, at 1410 Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, we start with an evaluation of how your spine moves and what you feel day to day.
Common signs
- Neck or back pain that ranges from mild to intense
- A disc in the neck: pain in the neck, shoulder or arm
- A disc in the low back: pain in the back, buttocks or legs
Who you'll see
Your chiropractic evaluation is with Dr. Jeffrey Klein, DC, who has led the practice since 1998 and holds New York State chiropractic license 008414. Acupuncture with Yong Shuang (Sandy) Cai, an acupuncturist, can also be part of a plan. Physical therapy at 1410 Broadway is provided by Core One Physical Therapy, brought to you by Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness.
What a visit involves
- History. We ask when it started, where you feel it, what makes it better or worse, and about your health history and medications.
- Exam. Dr. Klein checks posture, movement and the area involved. X-rays are taken only if they're needed.
- Plan. He explains what he found and what he suggests. You decide how to proceed. If something points to a problem that needs a physician, we'll tell you and suggest you see one.
APTA notes that how your spine looks doesn't always determine whether you'll have pain.
When to get medical care first
Neck pain. MedlinePlus says to call 911 or go to the hospital for a fever and headache with a neck so stiff you can't touch your chin to your chest. Call 911 for heart attack signs such as shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, vomiting, or arm or jaw pain, and don't drive yourself. Call 911 if you can't move your arm or hand after a fall or blow.
Back pain. For long-term (chronic) low back pain, MedlinePlus says to contact a provider if you have severe back pain that does not go away, and to contact one right away if you have numbness, loss of movement, weakness, or bowel or bladder changes. It also says to contact a provider right away for signs that include back pain after a severe blow or fall, or unexplained fever with back pain.
Sources (accessed Nov 3, 2026): APTA ChoosePT, Physical Therapy Guide to Degenerative Disk Disease · MedlinePlus, Low back pain - chronic · MedlinePlus, Low back pain - acute · MedlinePlus, Neck pain · MedlinePlus, Heart attack
Visiting us in Midtown
Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness is at 1410 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, at West 39th Street in Midtown Manhattan's Garment District.
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: closed
We work with most insurance plans and help you use your benefits. Call (212) 354-2225 or use the contact form to book.
FAQs
Is degenerative disc disease a disease?
Despite the name, APTA describes it as a natural part of aging, like getting gray hair. Even if spinal changes occur, you might not feel any pain.
Can I combine chiropractic care and acupuncture?
Yes, when it fits your plan. Acupuncture and chiropractic care are both available at our office.
