Degenerative Disc Disease

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs that pad and support your vertebrae begin to break down and wear away due to the natural aging process.

Researchers aren’t sure why degenerative disc disease occurs, but several factors are thought to play a role, including working a physically demanding job or suffering an injury.

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?

Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include:

• Pain that comes and goes
• Pain that radiates down the lower back and into the buttocks
• Pain that worsens when sitting, standing, or lifting
• Pain that causes numbness in your limbs

If you experience any of these issues and they don’t improve after a few days, don’t wait to make an appointment at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center.

Who is at risk of degenerative disc disease?

Anyone can experience degenerative disc disease, but several factors increase your risk, including being obese, smoking, experiencing an acute injury (like a fall), or being a woman.  

How is degenerative disc disease diagnosed?

To diagnose degenerative disc disease, your Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms. Let them know when the pain started and which activities cause you the most pain.

Next, your provider conducts a physical exam. They gently press on different areas in your back to assess your pain levels and have you perform a series of easy exercises to test your range of motion and strength. 

If these measures don’t provide enough information to make a diagnosis, your provider might also order X-rays, an MRI, or nerve function tests.

How is degenerative disc disease treated?

Treatment of degenerative disc disease depends on several factors, including the intensity of your symptoms and their effect on your daily life.

Usually, the team at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center recommends conservative care, including:

• Physical therapy
• Medication
• Chiropractic treatment
• Activity modifications
• Steroid injections

If your symptoms continue or they get worse, you might benefit from surgery. There are several types of surgery used to treat degenerative disc disease, including discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion.

Don’t let degenerative disc disease keep you sidelined. Book an appointment at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center by calling the office today or scheduling online.