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CONDITIONS

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a condition that refers to the gradual breakdown of intervertebral discs in the spine over time. Despite its name, it is not necessarily a disease, but rather a natural part of the aging process. The intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility, shock absorption, and allowing movement in the spine. With age, the discs in the spine can lose water content, becoming thinner and less flexible. Degenerative disc disease is arthritis of the spine. This degeneration can result in decreased disc height and may contribute to various spinal issues.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms of degenerative disc disease are dependent on where the damaged disc(s) are located and if other changes are caused; if the damaged disc is affecting nerves near the spine, for example. Common symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease include:

  • Pain This can be intermittent or persistent pain, which can be localized to the affected disc space or spread to other areas of the spine, buttocks, or legs.
  • Stiffness This stiffness will typically get worse after sitting or standing for an extended period of time.
  • Decreased flexibility This can also lead to a reduced range of motion.
  • Numbness and tingling If a damaged disc is compressing a nerve, you may experience pain, numbness, or tingling in the extremities.
  • Muscle weakness Nerve compression can also affect the motor fibers of nerves

To diagnose degenerative disc disease, your doctor will review your symptoms and conduct a physical examination to check nerve function, pain levels, and strength. Imaging studies such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan can allow your doctor to view the current state and alignment of the discs.

Treatment

The goal of treatment for degenerative disc disease is to relieve symptoms and prevent further degeneration and can involve both conservative and surgical approaches. This may include:

Conservative treatment
  • Medication Over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxers, may be used to manage pain.
  • Physical therapy Physical therapists may provide exercises and techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and posture, which can alleviate some symptoms and promote overall spinal health.
  • Epidural steroid injections In some cases, injections of corticosteroids around the affected nerves may provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.
Surgical intervention
  • Spinal fusion By fusing vertebrae, movement is limited and the spine is stabilized, providing relief from associated symptoms of degenerative disc disease. This allows for the arthritis to be removed permanently.
  • Disc replacement surgery Disc replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged disc with an artificial one, preserving motion in the spine. This procedure is an alternative to fusion, aiming to alleviate pain and maintain flexibility in the part of the spine affected by degenerative disc disease.
  • Cervical/lumbar decompression Decompression procedures involve removing a portion of the disc or bone to alleviate pressure on spinal nerves in the cervical (upper) or lumbar (lower) spine.
The decision to pursue surgery is typically reserved for patients in which conservative measures have failed, and symptoms are impacting daily life. Individuals with degenerative disc disease need to work closely with a spine specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. The effectiveness of treatment can vary, and a personalized approach is essential for an optimal outcome.
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Contact

Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.