Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment

Over time, the intervertebral discs lose fluid and become more prone to tears and cracks. This interrupts the spine's ability to absorb shock and reduces the amount of space between each of the vertebrae. Many people go through the aging process without feeling any effects from degenerative disc disease, but others find themselves developing one or more spine conditions as a result. Degenerative disc disease is a cause of many spine conditions, such as herniated discs, stenosis, and bone spurs.

Conservative Treatment

Often, degenerative disc disease responds well to conservative treatments. There are two goals with non-surgical spine treatments:

• Reducing the weight that the spine bears. When the discs bear more weight than they should, the effects of this condition are exacerbated. Physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, and regular exercise help to strengthen the back and improve the posture, both of which have a positive effect on symptoms. In addition, patients who are obese should consider losing at least 10% of their body weight regardless of what other treatments are used. 

• Reducing inflammation. Symptoms often cease once the inflammation in the area is treated. Limited rest is the first step to reducing inflammation. If that doesn't work, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen may be effective. A more dramatic option is to use epidural steroid injections, which are administered directly into the epidural space of the spine.
  

Surgical Treatment

If the symptoms are severe or if the above treatments don't work, then it's time to consider surgery. Laser surgery can now be used to treat most cases of degenerative disc disease. This is a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure designed to improve patient recovery times and reduce the risk of certain side effects. While traditionally surgery can successfully treat this condition, patients who have the option should opt for laser surgery.

To schedule a consultation about treatment for your back pain, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.