Understanding and Managing Degenerative Disc Disease

August 16,2024 by DR. NIKHIL K. SAHAI

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition that affects the spinal discs, leading to pain and discomfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help manage this condition effectively.

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease occurs when the spinal discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, begin to deteriorate. This degeneration can result in pain, instability, and reduced mobility. The condition often develops as a part of the natural aging process, but injury and repetitive stress can also contribute.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent Pain: Pain in the lower back, neck, or extremities, often exacerbated by
• Numbness or Tingling: Sensations in the arms or legs due to nerve
• Weakness: In the muscles served by affected
• Reduced Flexibility: Stiffness in the spine, especially in the morning or after periods of

Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease

1. Age: As you age, spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them more prone to
2. Injury: Trauma to the spine can accelerate disc
3. Genetics: Family history can play a role in the development of
4. Repetitive Stress: Activities that put constant strain on the spine can contribute to disc wear and

Treatment Options

1.     Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve
• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle
• Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.

2.     Alternative Therapies

• Chiropractic Care: Adjustments to relieve pain and improve spinal
• Acupuncture: Pain relief through stimulation of specific points on the
• Yoga and Pilates: Improve strength, flexibility, and overall spinal

3.     Advanced Treatment Options

• Microdiscectomy: Removing disc material to relieve nerve
• Laminectomy: Removing part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves without fusion.
• Artificial Discs: Replacing damaged discs with artificial ones to maintain
• Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove disc

The main advantages over conventional spinal fusion include:

• Faster recovery times after surgery
• More spinal mobility after surgery
• Reduced stress on adjacent discs
• No need to harvest bones for a bone graft

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that does not improve with conservative treatments
• Numbness or weakness in the legs or arms
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

University Spine Center’s Approach

University Spine Center provides comprehensive care for degenerative disc disease. Our team of specialists offers personalized treatment plans, including physical therapy, pain management, and advanced surgical options when necessary. We focus on patient education and empowerment, ensuring you have the knowledge and tools to manage your condition effectively.

Conclusion

Managing degenerative disc disease involves a combination of physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments. With the right approach, you can significantly reduce pain and improve your quality of life. For expert care and personalized treatment plans, University Spine Center is here to help you achieve optimal spinal health.