Degenerative disc disease is a state that, in certain individuals, occurs naturally during the aging process. One main factor contributing to degenerative disc disease is when intervertebral discs have a reduced ability to retain water and absorb nutrients from the vertebral endplates above and below them. As the discs become more and more dehydrated, they likewise become frail, and this may cause a variety of problems along the spinal column. These problems include symptoms of pain and discomfort when degenerative disc disease leads to herniated discs, spinal instability, spinal nerve compression, and other issues.