Degenerative Disc Disease

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Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition characterized by changes in the spinal discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae. As we age, these discs naturally undergo wear and tear, leading to various symptoms and potential complications.

 

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is primarily a consequence of aging rather than a distinct pathological condition. The spinal discs, composed of a tough outer layer and a soft inner core, degrade over time, leading to issues such as herniation, bulging, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis.

 

Degenerative Disc Symptoms:

Symptoms of degenerative disc disease vary among individuals and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Common symptoms include localized pain in the back or neck, radiating pain to the buttocks, arms, or legs due to nerve compression, as well as numbness and tingling sensations.

 

Degenerative Disc Causes:

Age-related degeneration of spinal discs is the primary cause of DDD. Factors such as obesity, smoking, repetitive physical labor, and previous injuries can accelerate this degenerative process. Tears in the outer layer of the disc and loss of fluid content contribute to reduced flexibility and size of the discs.

 

Preventative Measures:

Preventive measures, including maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding repetitive strain, can help mitigate the progression of DDD.

 

Degenerative Disc Treatment:

Treatment for degenerative disc disease aims to alleviate pain and improve functionality. Initial management often involves hot or cold therapy, along with anti-inflammatory medications. For more severe cases involving herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, or osteoarthritis, additional treatments such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, stretching exercises, may prove helpful.

When these interventions do not provide meaningful or lasting results, non-surgical spinal decompression therapy is indicated. Safe, effective and affordable, spinal decompression has a very high rate of success!

 

As a last resort, some cases may require surgical intervention. Different types of back surgery include:

• Diskectomy. This procedure removes the herniated portion of a disk.

• Laminectomy. This procedure removes bone at the back of the spine to make more room for the spinal cord and nerves.

• Fusion. Spinal fusion removes the arthritic joints and often uses metal implants to help permanently connect two or more bones in the spine.

• Artificial disks. These devices are made of plastic and metal. They can replace the damaged cushion between two spinal bones.