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Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility throughout your body. If you suffer from symptoms like persistent back pain or stiffness, book an appointment at Vertrae® in Dayton, Ohio.

Led by board-certified neurosurgeon Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, the practice offers several safe and effective treatments for degenerative disc disease.

Learn more about your options by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Kamal Woods today!

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Degenerative disc disease is a condition where the spinal discs, which act as cushions between your vertebrae, wear down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

While aging is the primary cause of degenerative disc disease, other factors can contribute to the condition:

  • Disc dehydration: Over time, the discs lose water content, becoming less flexible and more prone to wear and tear.
  • Injury: Trauma to the spine, such as from a fall or accident, can accelerate disc degeneration.
  • Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to faster disc degeneration.
  • Repetitive stress: Occupations or activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or bending can place excessive strain on the discs.

Not everyone with degenerative disc disease experiences symptoms, but for those who do, the most common include:

  • Chronic pain: Pain in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) that may worsen with certain activities.
  • Nerve pain: If disc degeneration leads to nerve compression, you may experience radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs.
  • Limited mobility: As the discs lose flexibility, you may notice stiffness in the spine and reduced range of motion.
  • Muscle weakness: Compressed nerves can cause weakness in the muscles served by those nerves.

Dr. Woods will conduct a thorough evaluation, including:

  • Medical History & Physical Exam: To assess symptoms and check for signs of nerve compression, such as reduced reflexes or strength.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • X-rays: Can reveal disc height loss and other changes in the spine.
    • MRI: Provides a detailed view of the soft tissues, including discs, and can detect disc degeneration and nerve compression.

Treatment aims to reduce pain and improve function:

  • Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain relievers can reduce discomfort.
  • Physical therapy: Strengthening the muscles surrounding the spine can reduce pressure on the discs and improve mobility.
  • Steroid injections: Epidural steroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.
  • Surgical options:
    • Spinal fusion: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to fuse the affected vertebrae and stabilize the spine.
    • Artificial disc replacement: An option to replace the damaged disc with an artificial one, restoring movement and reducing pain.