@larak. Understand your concerns, I am now 70 and was diagnosed with DDD at age 69 with a lumbar spine and degenerative scoliosis. I probably had the DDD much younger, but did not seek orthopedic care until I had unrelentingly back pain from scoliosis. Good news is I participated in PT program and now participate in yoga, core and balance classes 2-3 times a week. I also bike ride 2 times a week and swim in summer. I feel much better due to daily exercise and also started taking calcium with Vit D and K2, daily. I am hoping my DDD does not progress to osteoporosis, so my focus is on nutrition and exercise for now. I also take a daily supplement called Algecal with Fortibone and Fortigel that I feel has helped my flexibility and reduced my pain. I don’t think there is one magic bullet for anyone, it takes a lot of work and research into what will work for you. Connect has a lot of good information, and always consult your doctors with questions you have. Good Luck!