Overview:
- Degenerative disc disease is a condition that normally occurs from simple wear and tear during our body’s natural aging process.
- Spinal discs can also degenerate for other reasons, some of which include age, low energy injuries progressing over time, or a condition like osteoarthritis or osteoarthritis.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants discuss the causes, symptoms and treatments for degenerative disc disease.
Degenerative disc disease describes symptoms of pain and possible numbness or weakness from damaged discs in the spine. This condition is also one of the most common causes of low back pain, and it may worsen with age if treatment is not sought.
Causes
Age-related changes in the spine are the most common causes of degenerative disc disease. As we age, we lose fluid in our spinal discs, which reduces their ability to absorb shock. With that, tiny cracks in the outer layer of the disc may cause the inside of the disc to break through and rupture the spinal disc completely. In addition to age, a sudden or acute injury (falling, stumbling, etc.), smoking cigarettes, repeated heavy lifting, obesity, osteoarthritis or osteoporosis may begin or cause the degeneration process.
Symptoms
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease vary from person to person. Some individuals feel pain so excruciating, it limits their abilities. Others may feel no symptoms at all. Regardless, signs or symptoms of degenerative disc disease generally include:
- Back or neck pain
- Pain surrounding the affected disc
- Pain in the low back, buttocks or legs
- Pain worsening with movement or physical activity
- Pain, numbness or weakness that worsens over time
Treatment
Treatment for degenerative disc disease varies depending on the condition’s progression and symptoms. Conservative treatment options such as rest, ice, and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide some relief for mild cases, but for moderate to severe cases, the following treatments should be considered:
- Injections
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators
- Pain medication
- Minimally invasive spinal procedures (vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty)
- Minimally invasive spine surgery
Talk to your Tulsa Pain Consultants physician about treatment options if you’re suffering from degenerative disc disease, or symptoms of the condition. Call us today!
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.