Degeneration of the intervertebral disc, often called "degenerative disc disease" (DDD) of the spine, is a condition that can be painful and can greatly affect the quality of one's life. While disc degeneration is a normal part of aging and is not a problem for most people, a degenerated disc can cause severe, chronic pain for certain individuals. With symptomatic degenerative disc disease, chronic low back pain sometimes radiates to the hips, buttocks, or thighs while walking; sporadic tingling or weakness through the knees may also be evident. Similar pain may be felt or may increase while sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting. Chronic neck pain can also occur in the upper spine, with pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, and hands.