Specialties
Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease in Plano, TX
At the Advanced Spine Center, we understand the impact that degenerative disc disease can have on your life. We are dedicated to providing advanced treatments tailored to your unique needs. Our team of skilled orthopedic surgeons specializes in addressing the complexities of spine health, offering comprehensive solutions for individuals grappling with the challenges of degenerative disc disease.
From state-of-the-art diagnostics to innovative surgical interventions and personalized rehabilitation plans, the Advanced Spine Center is committed to restoring function and improving the quality of life for those navigating the journey of degenerative disc disease. Explore our specialized services and discover how we can guide you toward a path of renewed spinal wellness. To schedule an appointment, call 972-499-5457 today.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the intervertebral discs of the spine. An alternate spelling is “degenerative disk disease.” Intervertebral discs are soft, gel-like cushions located between the vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. These discs are composed of a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like center called the nucleus pulposus.
With degenerative disc disease, these discs undergo changes over time, often as a result of aging or wear and tear. It’s important to note that degenerative disc disease is not always symptomatic. Many people with evidence of disc degeneration on imaging may not experience any pain or functional impairment. However, in some cases, the degenerative changes can contribute to conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other spinal disorders that may cause symptoms.
Types of Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease can affect various regions of the spine. Cervical degenerative disc disease, lumbar degenerative disc disease, and multilevel degenerative disc disease are common manifestations. Each of these types results in disc degeneration in different areas of the spine.
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Cervical degenerative disc disease occurs in the neck region of the spine, specifically in the seven vertebrae known as the cervical spine. Over time, the intervertebral discs in this area may undergo degenerative changes, leading to various symptoms. These symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, and sometimes radiating pain or numbness in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
In severe cases, it may contribute to the development of conditions like cervical herniated discs or cervical spinal stenosis. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain management, and, in some cases, surgical interventions to alleviate pressure on the affected nerves or stabilize the spine.
Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Lumbar degenerative disc disease affects the lower back, specifically the five vertebrae of the lumbar spine. This condition can result in lower back pain, stiffness, and discomfort that may radiate into the buttocks and legs. It is a common cause of chronic low back pain. The degeneration of discs in this region can lead to conditions such as lumbar herniated discs or lumbar spinal stenosis.
Conservative treatments for this condition often include physical therapy, pain medications, and lifestyle modifications. In cases of persistent or severe symptoms, surgical options like lumbar spinal fusion or disc replacement may be considered.
Multilevel Degenerative Disc Disease
Multilevel degenerative disc disease refers to the involvement of multiple levels of the spine, where multiple sets of spinal disks break down. This can occur in both the cervical and lumbar regions simultaneously or at different levels within the same region. The symptoms and treatment for this condition depend on the specific areas affected and the extent of degeneration.
Individuals with multilevel disc degeneration may experience a combination of symptoms related to each affected region, such as a combination of neck and lower back pain, along with associated radiating symptoms. Management typically involves a comprehensive approach addressing the specific symptoms at each level, often incorporating physical therapy, pain management, and surgical options when necessary.
What Are the Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease?
This condition is a weakening of one or more vertebral discs, which normally act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. This condition can develop as a natural part of the aging process, but it may also result from injury to the back.
Disc Wall Tears
Degenerative disc disease typically begins when small tears appear in the disc wall, called the annulus. These tears can cause pain.
Disc Wall Heals
When the tears heal, creating scar tissue that is not as strong as the original disc wall. If the back is repeatedly injured, the process of tearing and scarring may continue, weakening the disc wall.
Disc Center Weakens
Over time, the nucleus (or center) of the disc becomes damaged and loses some of its water content. This center is called the pulposus, and its water content is needed to keep the disc functioning as a shock absorber for the spine.
Nucleus Collapses
Unable to act as a cushion, the nucleus collapses. The vertebrae above and below this damaged disc slide closer together. This improper alignment causes the facet joints – the areas where the vertebral bones touch – to twist into an unnatural position.
Bone Spurs Form
In time, this awkward positioning of the vertebrae may create bone spurs. If these spurs grow into the spinal canal, they may pinch the spinal cord and nerves (a condition called spinal stenosis). The site of the injury may be painful.
Degenerative Disc Disease Symptoms
Degenerative disc disease can manifest with a variety of symptoms, which can vary in severity and may differ from person to person. Common symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease include the following.
- Acute pain
- Stiffness
- Radiating pain (often from a pinched nerve)
- Numbness and tingling
- Weakness
- Decreased range of motion
- Worsening symptoms with activity
It’s important to note that not everyone with degenerative disc disease experiences symptoms. In many cases, degenerative changes may be seen in imaging studies without causing noticeable discomfort. Additionally, symptoms may come and go or vary in intensity over time.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease in Neck
Degenerative disc disease in the neck, also known as cervical degenerative disc disease, can present with various symptoms. The severity and specific symptoms can vary among individuals, but common signs associated with it include the following.
- Neck pain
- Stiffness
- Radiating pain signals
- Headaches
- Numbness and tingling
- Weakness
- Worsening symptoms while moving the head
- Difficulty with fine motor skills
Degenerative Disc Disease Symptoms Lower Back
Degenerative disc disease in the lower back, also known as lumbar degenerative disc disease, can manifest with a range of symptoms. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may include the following.
- Lower back pain
- Radiating severe pain
- Numbness and tingling
- Stiffness
- Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods
- Weakness
- Worsening symptoms while bending or twisting the back
- Impaired reflexes
What Does Degenerative Disc Disease Feel Like?
Some people experience pain, numbness or tingling in the legs. Strong pain tends to come and go. Bending, twisting and sitting may make the pain worse. Lying down relieves pressure on the spine.
It’s important to note that not everyone with degenerative changes in the spine experiences noticeable symptoms. In some cases, it may be detected incidentally on imaging studies without causing pain or functional impairment.
Can You Become Paralyzed from Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease itself does not typically lead to paralysis. It is a condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of the intervertebral discs in the spine. Because the intervertebral discs cushion the vertebrae, this can result in symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While it can cause discomfort and affect the quality of life, it is not a direct cause of paralysis.
However, in some cases, complications related to degenerative disc disease or the structural changes it causes may lead to more serious conditions that could potentially result in neurological deficits, including paralysis.
Long-Term Effects of Degenerative Disc Disease
The long-term effects of degenerative disc disease can vary among individuals, and not everyone will experience the same outcomes. The progression and impact of the condition depend on factors such as the severity of the degeneration, the presence of complications, and how well the condition is managed. Some potential long-term effects and considerations include the following.
- Chronic pain
- Functional limitations
- Impacts on work, recreational activities, and overall mobility
- Muscle spasms
- Decreased quality of life
- Complications, such as herniated spinal discs or spinal stenosis
- Mental health impacts
What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is primarily associated with the natural aging process, and multiple factors contribute to its development. While aging is the primary cause, other factors can accelerate or exacerbate intervertebral disk degeneration. Key contributors to the development of degenerative disk disease include the following.
- Aging
- Genetics
- Smoking tobacco
- Trauma or injury
- Obesity
- Poor posture
- Occupational factors
- Spinal conditions
Is Degenerative Disc Disease Hereditary?
Genetic factors can play a role in predisposing individuals to degenerative disk disease. While aging is the primary factor contributing to disc degeneration, studies suggest that there is a hereditary component to its development.
Research indicates that there may be a genetic predisposition to the condition. Some individuals may inherit certain genetic factors that make their intervertebral discs more susceptible to degeneration. This can include variations in the genes responsible for disc structure, composition, and maintenance.
Is Degenerative Disc Disease a Disability?
Whether degenerative disk disease qualifies as a disability depends on the severity of symptoms, the impact on an individual’s ability to perform daily activities, and the specific criteria set by disability laws in a given region. The condition itself is not automatically considered a disability, but the functional limitations and symptoms it causes may meet the criteria for disability under certain circumstances.
Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosis
Diagnosing degenerative disc disease typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and imaging studies. We will begin by taking a detailed medical history, including information about the patient’s symptoms, their duration, and any factors that may exacerbate or alleviate the pain. They may inquire about the patient’s overall health, previous injuries, and lifestyle factors.
A physical examination assesses the patient’s range of motion, flexibility, and any signs of neurological involvement. We may check for tenderness, muscle strength, reflexes, and sensory changes in specific areas.
Degenerative Disc Disease X-Ray
X-rays can help visualize the structure of the spine and identify any abnormalities, such as narrowing of the disc spaces or the presence of bone spurs or herniated discs.
Degenerative Disc Disease Therapies and Treatments in Plano
The management of degenerative disc disease typically involves a combination of conservative therapies, medications, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. The choice of surgical or nonsurgical treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the impact on daily life, and the individual’s response to different interventions.
What Is the Best Pain Relief for Degenerative Disc Disease?
The choice of pain relief for degenerative disc disease depends on the severity of symptoms, individual response, and any underlying health conditions. A combination of approaches, like medication, injections, physical therapy, and surgery, is often used to manage pain effectively.
Degenerative Disc Disease Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or prescription medications like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help with pain management and inflammation. In cases where muscle spasms contribute to pain, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to alleviate tension.
Creams, patches, or gels containing analgesic ingredients (e.g., NSAIDs or lidocaine) can be applied directly to the skin for localized relief. For individuals with nerve-related pain, medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin may be prescribed.
Injections of corticosteroids into the epidural space around the affected nerves may provide temporary relief of inflammation and pain.
Injections into the facet joints, which are small joints between vertebrae, can help alleviate pain associated with inflammation or irritation.
Degenerative Disc Disease Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to improve flexibility, strength, and posture. Core-strengthening exercises are often emphasized to provide support to the spine.
Hands-on techniques, such as massage or spinal manipulation, may be used to reduce muscle tension and improve joint mobility. Learning proper body mechanics and adopting good posture habits can help alleviate pain and prevent worsening of symptoms.
Degenerative Disc Disease Surgery
In cases of a herniated disc causing nerve compression, a discectomy may be performed to remove a portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Spinal fusion involves joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and reduce motion between them.
Instead of fusion spine surgery, an artificial disc may be implanted to maintain motion at the affected spinal segment while providing stability.
How to Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease
While degenerative disc disease is often a natural part of the aging process, certain lifestyle modifications and preventive measures may help reduce the risk of accelerated disc degeneration and alleviate associated symptoms.
Degenerative Disc Disease Self-Care
Excess weight puts additional stress on the spine, particularly in the lumbar region. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of disc degeneration.
Adopting good posture habits can help prevent unnecessary strain on the spine. Sit and stand with proper alignment, and use ergonomic furniture and accessories when possible.
When lifting objects, use proper body mechanics. Bend at the knees, keep the object close to your body, and avoid twisting while lifting.
Intervertebral discs depend on water for proper function and shock absorption. Staying hydrated supports the discs’ ability to maintain their structure and function. You can also use hot and cold therapy to alleviate discomfort.
Stress can contribute to muscle tension and exacerbate pain. Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and promote overall well-being.
If you have a desk job, ensure that your workspace is ergonomically designed to support good posture. Use an adjustable chair and position computer monitors at eye level.
Regular medical check-ups can help identify and address any health conditions that may contribute to spine problems. Addressing issues early can help prevent the progression of degeneration.
Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease
Take breaks and avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Change positions regularly, and incorporate stretching or short walks into your routine.
Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of disc degeneration. Quitting smoking can have various health benefits, including improved spine health.
Exercises for Degenerative Disc Disease
Engage in regular physical activity to strengthen the muscles that support the spine. Focus on exercises that improve core strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling can be beneficial. Speak with a physical therapist for more information on how to exercise with degenerative disc disease.
Degenerative Disc Disease Doctor in Plano, TX
At the Advanced Spine Center, we believe in empowering our patients to reclaim their lives from the challenges of degenerative disc disease. Our commitment to excellence in orthopedic spine care is reflected in our state-of-the-art treatments, compassionate approach, and unwavering dedication to your well-being.
Whether you are seeking non-surgical interventions, minimally invasive procedures, or advanced spine surgery, our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons is here to guide you on the path to recovery. Your journey toward a healthier, more active life begins with us. Trust in the expertise of the Advanced Spine Center – where innovation, precision, and personalized care converge to redefine the possibilities of spinal health.
Contact us today to embark on your personalized treatment plan and take the first step toward a future with a revitalized spine.
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