Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment
Expert Care for Age-Related Spine Changes
Degenerative disc disease is a common cause of lower back and neck pain. We offer comprehensive treatments to manage pain and restore function as your spine changes over time.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease, but a term used to describe the normal changes that occur in your spinal discs as you age. Spinal discs are soft, compressible cushions that separate the interlocking bones (vertebrae) that make up the spine.
Over time, these discs can break down or degenerate, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms. Nearly everyone experiences some disc degeneration as they get older, but not everyone will experience pain.
What Causes It?
As we age, our spinal discs undergo changes that can lead to degeneration:
- Loss of fluid: Discs are made mostly of water. As we age, they lose fluid, becoming thinner and less effective as shock absorbers.
- Tiny tears or cracks: The outer layer of the disc (annulus) can develop small tears due to everyday movements and minor injuries.
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to faster disc degeneration.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, obesity, and physically demanding jobs can accelerate the degeneration process.
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination to assess your pain, range of motion, and nerve function.
Imaging tests are crucial for confirming disc degeneration:
- X-rays: Can show narrowing of the space between vertebrae, indicating disc thinning.
- MRI: Provides detailed images of the discs, showing loss of water content, tears in the outer layer, or herniation.
- Discogram: In some cases, dye is injected into the disc to confirm if a specific disc is the source of the pain.
Treatment Options
Conservative Care
Most cases of degenerative disc disease can be managed successfully with conservative care:
- Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the back and core muscles, improving spine support.
- Medications: NSAIDs, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants to manage pain and inflammation.
- Epidural steroid injections: To reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves.
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and ergonomic adjustments.
Surgical & Minimally Invasive Options
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief after several months, and the pain significantly impacts your quality of life, surgery may be considered.
- Spinal Fusion: Fusing two or more vertebrae together to eliminate painful motion at the degenerated disc segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Dr. Bidiwala?
- Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
- Minimally Invasive Specialist
- 20+ Years Experience
- 15-year D Magazine Best Doctor
Common Symptoms
- Pain that is worse when sitting
- Pain that gets worse when bending, lifting or twisting
- Feeling better when walking or moving
- Feeling better when changing positions often or lying down
- Periods of severe pain that come and go, lasting from a few days to a few months
When to See a Specialist
You should see a spine specialist if:
- Your pain is severe or getting worse
- Pain radiates down your leg or arm
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Pain interferes with your daily activities or sleep
Ready to Find Relief?
Don't let spine pain control your life. Schedule a consultation to explore personalized treatment options tailored to your specific condition.