Degenerative disc disease is a condition that occurs when the cartilaginous discs that cushion the spinal vertebrae deteriorate. To some extent, wear and tear to the intervertebral discs is a natural consequence of aging, but sometimes when damage causes the discs to thin, the openings through which spinal nerves pass can be obstructed. The symptoms of pain and muscle weakness caused by nerve compression often prompt those with degenerative disc disease to seek medical treatment.
Pain Management
Dr. Peter Ullrich, an orthopedic surgeon with NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin, states that in many cases the symptoms of degenerative disc disease subside with time, as the disc hardens and the affected area of the spine restabilizes. With this in mind, sometimes the goal of treatment is merely to manage the pain until the condition resolves itself without any further invasive treatment.
Pain management in cases of degenerative disc disease can involve medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or injection of steroids into the epidural area. Devices such as a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, unit, or ultrasound can sometimes offer pain relief. A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated device that sends electrical impulses to block pain. Chiropractic and massage therapies are also helpful in pain relief from degenerative disc disease, according to Ullrich.
Lifestyle Modification
In conjunction with pain management, a medically supervised program of lifestyle changes is typically necessary to coach patients on how to participate in their own recovery. Losing weight can ease stress on the spine; quitting smoking will help the body to heal more efficiently; and exercise can increase mobility and strengthen the muscles that help support the spine. A physician can help the patient develop strategies for accomplishing these lifestyle changes.
Learning more ergonomically safe methods for performing common tasks can help persons with degenerative disc disease avoid placing further stress on the spinal joints. A physical therapist can coach patients on spine-safe methods for lifting, turning and moving, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Surgery
Ullrich advises that spinal surgery for degenerative disc disease is a major medical procedure. Less invasive measures should be fully explored before this option is chosen, especially given the tendency of degenerative disc symptoms to lessen over time.
Cedars-Sinai states that spinal fusion surgery is currently considered the top surgical option for treating disc degeneration. This procedure has drawbacks, such as loss of mobility. A newer technique using artificial discs to replace damaged discs is reversible, does not cause loss of mobility, is less painful and has fewer complications than spinal fusion surgery.
