Degenerative Disc Disease

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

The bones of the spinal column are separated from each other by cushions known as intervertebral discs. These discs provide structural support to the spine and act as shock absorbers, taking in the stress created by movement of the spine. These discs are mostly water and resilient, however, age, repetitive strain, and (possibly) genetics can cause one or more discs to wear out or degenerate. Back pain results because the worn discs thin and do not maintain the proper spaces between nerves and vertebral bones.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease can produce pain as a worn disc becomes thin, narrowing the space between the vertebrae. With less space available, nerves may become compressed, causing them to swell and signal pain.

Pieces of the damaged disc may also break off and cause irritation of the nerves. As the disc loses its ability to absorb stress and provide support, other parts of the spine become overloaded, thus leading to irritation, inflammation, fatigue, muscle spasms, and back pain.

The amount of pain from degenerative disc disease can vary from naggingly irritating to severely debilitating. Most patients have some underlying chronic low back pain with intermittent episodes of severe pain. Usually, sitting worsens the pain more than standing. Bending, twisting, and lifting generally worsen the pain and lying down reduces it by relieving the strain on the disc space.

In addition to back pain, there may also be pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs if the disc degeneration is located in the lower spine. Pain in the neck, shoulder blades, arms, and hands as well as numbness and tingling in the shoulder and arms may be present for disc degeneration in the upper spine.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease

Usually conservative treatments are the first approach and can include active physical therapy and education. Strengthening of the core muscles around the spine may help to reduce pain. Medication may be prescribed. If pain persists for several months after other treatments, surgical options may be considered.  Various fusion procedures may be used in which degenerated disc tissue is removed and replaced with bone which fuses to stabilize the painful spinal segment. Total disc replacement or artificial discs may be used as well. The disc tissue is removed and a mobile disc prosthesis is put into the disc space to maintain some amount of spine movement. Your Doctor will discuss treatment options with you to help you decide which treatment option may be best for you.