Degenerative Disc Disease

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is a common term used for several conditions of the spine that occur to the intervertebral discs of the spine with age. As we age, the intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers in the spine lose some of their fluid content and therefore decrease in size and height. The combination of these factors may cause the discs to dry out, weaken or herniate. Osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis may develop as a result of degenerative disc disease.
Any of the intervertebral discs can degenerate. However, those of the neck and lower back are the ones most often affected. More rarely the thoracic discs may degenerate.
In many cases, degenerative disc disease in its early stages typically does not cause symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they range in type and severity.
If you have degenerative disc disease the symptoms can include:

• Pain in the neck or back
• Pain that radiates into the extremities
• Feeling of stiffness in the neck or back

Pain in the back that is made better by sitting or standing
If you are experiencing symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease it is best to make an appointment with one of the Board Certified Spine Specialists at The Spine Institute of Louisiana as soon as possible. Delaying treatment may cause the symptoms to become worse. Our Board Certified Spine Specialists have helped thousands of patients with Degenerative Disc Disease return to an active and healthy lifestyle.

How is Degenerative Disc Disease Treated at The Spine Institute of Louisiana?

At The Spine Institute of Louisiana, Degenerative Disc Disease can usually be treated using non-surgical treatment options such as the following:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Activity modification
• Spinal injections

Degenerative Disc Disease itself is not cured with surgery. However, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and vertebral compression fractures that occur due to Degenerative Disc Disease may require surgical intervention. Depending upon your condition and if non-surgical options have not relieved your pain, your Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Specialist may recommend a Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery to relieve pain and correct the underlying spinal condition. At The Spine Institute of Louisiana, our Board Certified Spine Surgeons are experts in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.

Make an Appointment with a Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Specialist Today

• If you have been experiencing symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Specialists.
• We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of treatment is best for you.