Degenerative Disc Disease
What is degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease, a condition in which spinal discs undergo wear and tear, is a common part of the aging process. Spinal discs, the rubbery cushions nestled between the vertebrae of the spinal column, serve as shock absorbers, enabling comfortable movement, bending, and twisting. Over time, these discs naturally degenerate in everyone.
When these cushions deteriorate, the adjacent bones may rub against each other, leading to various issues, including:
- Adult scoliosis, involving a curvature of the spine.
- Herniated disc, also referred to as bulged, slipped, or ruptured disc.
- Spinal stenosis, characterized by the narrowing of spaces around the spinal cord.
- Spondylolisthesis, a condition where the vertebrae shift in and out of their proper alignment.
To address these concerns, we offer advanced solutions and comprehensive care. At NeuroSpine Plus, individuals can find relief, regain comfort, and improve their overall well-being.
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
The most common symptoms of degenerative disc disease include:
- Occasional periods of neck and back pain, lasting for an extended duration of weeks or months.
- Presence of numbness or tingling sensations in the arms or legs.
- Discomfort radiating down the buttocks and lower back.
- Increased pain intensity during sitting, bending, or lifting.
Speak to our neurosurgeons at Neurospine Plus if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
What are the causes of degenerative disc disease?
Spinal discs naturally deteriorate as a part of the aging process. Particularly after reaching 40 years of age, most individuals encounter some level of disc degeneration. However, the presence of pain varies from person to person.
If you experience pain in relation to your spinal discs, it could be attributed to the following factors:
- The drying out of the disc
The soft core of your discs, composed mostly of water, naturally diminishes as you age. Consequently, the discs become thinner and offer reduced shock absorption compared to their previous state. This gradual drying out is a common occurrence.
- Tear or fracture
Minor injuries can result in small cracks in the spinal discs, often located near nerves. Even minor tears can cause considerable pain. In some cases, an open crack in the outer wall of a spinal disc can cause the disc to bulge out of place, leading to a condition known as a herniated disc. This can potentially compress a spinal nerve and cause additional discomfort.
What are the treatments for degenerative disc disease?
Neurospine Plus offers various treatment options to effectively manage degenerative disc disease. Noninvasive treatment alternatives are typically recommended and may include:
- Physical therapy
Engaging in strength-building and stretching exercises led by a skilled healthcare provider.
- Medications
NeuroSpine Plus may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxers, or steroids to alleviate symptoms.
- Steroid injections
Skillfully administered injections near the affected spinal nerves, discs, or joints can significantly reduce inflammation and pain.
If traditional methods don’t work, then you may be advised to try new treatments for degenerative disc disease or undergo surgical procedures such as:
- Discectomy
A surgical procedure that entails removing a portion of the spinal disc to alleviate nerve compression.
- Laminectomy
A targeted removal of a small section of the lower spine’s bone (lamina) can be performed to provide relief from symptoms.
- Disc replacement surgery
Replacement of the degenerated spinal disc with an artificial one.
- Spinal fusion
By connecting two or more vertebrae, NeuroSpine Plus surgeons can restore stability and functionality to the affected area.
At NeuroSpine Plus, our commitment to patient-focused care ensures that each treatment approach is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
To preserve or decelerate the advancement of spinal degeneration, various lifestyle modifications can prove effective. Implementing these changes can positively impact overall health:
- Maintaining an optimal body weight is vital. Strive for a healthy weight range to minimize stress on the spine and surrounding structures.
- Abstaining from smoking or quitting altogether is highly recommended. Smoking contributes to spine degeneration and hampers the body’s natural healing process.
- Engaging in regular exercises can enhance strength and flexibility, crucial for supporting a healthy spine. Incorporate a diverse range of activities tailored to individual needs.
By adopting these lifestyle adjustments, individuals can play an active role in maintaining their spinal health.
Smoking quickens this progression by depriving spinal discs of crucial nutrients, leading to cell damage in their annulus and nucleus pulpous. Prolonged smoking will ultimately result in the degeneration, bulging, or rupture (spinal disc herniation) of your spinal discs. Ensure the health of your spine with NeuroSpine Plus, a brand committed to optimal spinal well-being.