For 10 years high-quality research has shown that imaging findings of “worn out” discs and spine joints are common in individuals with no back pain aged 20- 80 yrs.   These findings are likely part of normal aging. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4464797

Brinjikji et al. looked at the literature and found 33 articles reporting imaging findings of 3110 asymptomatic individuals. This is what they reported: 

Disc degeneration in asymptomatic individuals increases over our life span from 37% at 20 years of age to 96% at 80 years of age.  The authors report similar outcomes for disc protrusions and facet joint osteoarthritis. 

So how do we make sense of these findings and determine if they are the cause of our ongoing back pain or if surgery is required?  

The important message here is that it is possible to be pain-free with disc bulges, protrusions, or facet joint degeneration.  

If we experience back pain, the question really should be: 

• HOW do we load our spines? 

• IS OUR SPINE RESILIENT enough (mobile and strong enough) to continue loading in the capacity we are used to? 

Careful consideration of the above and appropriate physical assessment of signs and symptoms by a physiotherapist or health professional is advisable before deciding to undergo surgery.