<s>[INST] I have degenerative disc disease. It s int the L5 vertebrae. My left side has been bothering me for a while. I thought it might be the muscles trying to keep my back straight. I m crooked now. It is getting worse and is moving towards the front. Just curious if I was correct in thinking that the muscles are overworked. [/INST] Neurodegenerative disc disease need proper evaluation. Besides clinical assessment, you may need further investigations like MRI of L/S spine. It is important to know status of inter vertebral disc and nerve. Treatment options of degenerative disc disease is both conservative or surgical depending upon findings. You may need to take medicines and physiotherapy. Surgery is required in non-responsive cases. You should contact your neurologist. Take Care Chat Doctor.  </s>