What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
As we age, spinal discs obtain wear and tear that can lead to annular tears. These tears may cause disc desiccation (dehydration), leaving the spinal discs thin and unable to cushion the vertebrae. Degenerative disc disease can lead to other spine conditions as well, but annular tears are the underlying cause of degenerative disc disease and its symptoms.
Conservative options, such as
- Medication
- Spinal Fusion
- Spinal Mobilization
- Artificial Disc Replacement
- Nerve Stimulation
Are often prescribed to treat symptoms of degenerative disc disease
But these options only focus on easing pain rather than treating the underlying cause
ONLY THE DISCSEEL® PROCEDURE IS KNOWN TO HEAL DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE CAUSED BY ANNULAR TEARS
THE DISCSEEL® PROCEDURE uses Fibrin, an FDA-approved substance that is used off-label, to seal and regenerate tissue. Fibrin is injected into disc tears, typically taking less than an hour. You'll be walking the same day. The disc continues healing over 3-12 months as you increase your activity.
Degenerative disc disease is not as much a disease as it is a name for the changes that can happen to the spine as we age.
Our discs are made of a tough, rubbery exterior and a soft interior. They sit between the vertebrae to act as shock absorbers. As we age, the spinal discs begin to degenerate. This can cause herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis.
Degenerative Disc Symptoms
The degeneration of spinal discs may cause no symptoms at all, and symptoms depend on each patient and the severity of their case.
Pain may occur at the site of the affected disc in the back or neck. As the pain is often caused by compressed nerves, this pain can also travel to other areas of the body like the buttocks, arms, and legs. Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs may also be experienced. Pain can range from mild to severe and debilitating.
Degenerative Disc Causes
As mentioned previously, our spines can degenerate as a natural part of aging. Tears in the tougher outer layer of the disc are common as we grow older. and when the discs begin to lose fluid, they become smaller and less flexible.
In addition to aging, other factors that may come into play, including obesity, smoking, repeated physical work, and injury.
Degenerative Disc Treatment
Pain caused by degeneration is often treated with hot or cold packs and an anti inflammatory medication. When disc degeneration causes problems like herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, or osteoarthritis, other forms of treatment may be beneficial. This may include physical therapy, stretching, and in some cases, surgery. While degenerative disc disease is a natural part of aging, there are things you can do to prevent pain and stay healthy. If you are
experiencing frequent back or neck pain, be sure to visit our office for an examination so we can create a treatment plan for you.