Spinal Disc Degeneration Causes, Changes & Symptoms. Does your back feel stiff or painful after sitting for a long time? It might be Spinal Disc Degeneration. Disc degeneration, also called degenerative disc disease (DDD), is a condition in which the intervertebral discs of the spine gradually lose their normal structure and function with age or wear and tear. Simple explanation: Spinal discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. Over time, these discs can lose water content, become thin