Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment
- Pain Management
- /
- Degenerative Disc Disease
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What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition in which the strength of one or more of the back’s discs deteriorates. Despite its name, degenerative disc disease isn’t a disease. It’s a condition that develops over time due to wear and tear or an injury.
The discs in the back are found between the spine’s vertebrae. They serve as shock absorbers and cushions. Discs assist in performing everyday tasks such as standing straight, twisting and bending over.
DDD might deteriorate over time. It might produce mild to severe pain, making it challenging to go about daily activities.
What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?
A soft inner core and a robust outside wall make up the spinal disks. Degenerative disk disease is caused by changes in the disks, such as:
- Dry out: The disks in our spine are primarily made of water when we’re born. They lose moisture and become thinner as we age. As a result of the loss of fluids, the cushion or padding between the vertebrae becomes thin, and flatter disks do not well absorb shocks.
- Crack: Over time, the stress of everyday movements and slight traumas can produce small tears in the outer wall, which houses the nerves. Tears that are close to the nerves tend to be highly painful. A slipped or herniated disc occurs when the disc bulges or slips out of place and has the potential to harm adjacent nerves.
What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
Neck and back discomfort are the most prevalent symptoms of degenerative disk disease. You may feel pain that:
- Comes and goes, sometimes lasting weeks or months.
- Radiates down the buttocks and lower back
- Causes numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Worsens upon sitting, bending, or lifting.
How is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of degenerative disc disease starts with a physical examination and medical history. The healthcare provider may also use imaging scans such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. These tests can reveal the status and alignment of the disks to the doctor. The doctor may also perform a physical examination that includes;
- Nerve function tests: The provider may use a reflex hammer to assess nerve function. It’s possible to have injured or compressed nerves if one has poor or no reaction.
- Pain levels: To measure pain levels, your provider may touch or press on certain parts of your back.
- Nerve degeneration: Muscle weakness or shrinkage (atrophy) could indicate nerve injury or degeneration of the disks.
How is Degenerative Disc Disease Treated?
One or more of the following options may be used to treat DDD. :
Thermotherapy (hot or cold)
Heat packs can assist reduce the inflammation that produces pain, while cold packs can help relieve the pain associated with a damaged disc.
Over-the-counter medications
DDD pain can be relieved by acetaminophen (Tylenol). Ibuprofen (Advil) is a pain reliever that also reduces inflammation.
Physical therapy
Exercises strengthen the back muscles while also relieving pain. It can also aid in discomfort, posture, and overall mobility with time.
Surgery
The doctor may propose either an artificial disc replacement or a spinal fusion, depending on the severity of your condition. You may need surgery if your discomfort does not go away or worsens after six months. Replacement of a fractured disc with a new one comprised of plastic and metal is known as artificial disc replacement. Spinal fusion, on the other hand, strengthens the spine by joining the damaged vertebrae together.