Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Degenerative disk disease, or DDD, is the result of normal changes occurring overtime in the discs of the spine that result in pain or discomfort.

Spinal discs are located between each vertebrae of the spine. These discs function like tiny shock absorbers, allowing the spine to bend and flex while protecting against pain and injury. Over time, and as we age, these discs start to break down. While not everyone experiences pain from worn down spinal discs, those who do are often diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.



Causes of Degenerative Disk Disease

Although not technically considered a disease, degenerative disc disease is a condition that occurs when the discs of the spine begin to breakdown; causes of DDD include :

  • Normal changes associated with aging;
  • Drying out of spinal discs, reducing the amount of protection provided;
  • Sports or work-related activities or injuries that cause discs to herniate, tear, or rupture;

Spinal discs have little access to consistent blood supply; unlike other organs of the body, once injured or damaged, the disc cannot heal itself and begins to deteriorate.

Symptoms

Symptoms of DDD are most often found in the lumbar (low back) or cervical (neck) area of the spine; the most common symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease include:

01

Pain that can range in intensity from minor to debilitating

02

Numbness, discomfort, or pain that radiates to the legs, feet, arms, or hands

03

Discomfort that intensifies while sitting

04

Pain that becomes more intense when bending, twisting, or lifting an object

05

Discomfort, pressure, or pain that becomes less intense while moving, walking, or lying down

Diagnosis

DDD is generally diagnosed after a physical assessment and complete review of medical history, including detailed descriptions of the specific symptoms being experienced and the exact circumstances leading up to the onset of the pain and discomfort.

Possible Treatments

The most effective and longest-lasting treatment for back pain, including DDD, is increasing the strength and flexibility of the muscles associated with spinal support. In addition to exercises and stretching designed to increase strength and flexibility of muscles in the back, treatment for degenerative disc disease may include:

OTC medications, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen to reduce inflammation and mange pain
Additional physical therapy
Treatment with cold and heat therapy
Spinal mobilisation and bracing
Surgery, including spinal fusion and/or disc replacement
Dr.Raju Mantena
Dr. Raju Mantena is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist based in the Houston area and has over 15 years of medical experience which he relies upon each day to successfully treat his patients’ acute and chronic pain.
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