Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease in nagpur-the spinal discs of a person gradually wear out. The concomitant pain and rigidity may hit almost any region of the neck and back, but it’s more common to find that pain in the neck. It’s an extremely common condition that has been affecting many people as they age.
Causes:
1. Aging: Spinal discs dry out or lose their cushioning ability.
2. Wear and tear: The discs break from years of use.
3. Injury: Bulging and sometimes herniation of discs is a direct result of injury.
Some of the treatments provided to patients with Degenerative Disc Disease include:
1. Physical therapy
2. Chiropractic treatment
3. Medication to relieve pain
4. Injections; either corticosteroid injections or analgesic injections
5. Surgery
6. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, weight loss, and maintaining good posture
7. Alternative treatments that include acupuncture, massage, or yoga
What Is a Degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease is the progressive loss of spinal discs-the cartilaginous cushions between vertebrae, which leads to:
Loss of disc height and cushioning
Cracking and tearing of the outer layer of the disc (annulus)
Bulging or herniation of the soft inner part of the disc (nucleus pulposus)
Decreased mobility in flexing or moving the spine
Neck or back aching and stiffness
Degenerative disc disease can be explained by
1. Aging and degeneration
2. Intrinsic
3. Trauma/traumatic injury
4. Bad posture
5. Obesity
6. Smoking
Symptoms may include:
1. Back or neck pain
2. Limited or stiff movement
3. Numbness or tingling sensation in the arms or legs
4. Muscle weakness
5. Reduced range of movement
Even though DDD is one of the chronic conditions, the treatment options for DDD are available to improve the quality of life and alleviate symptoms.
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease:
- Aging: The primary cause of DDD is a natural aging process. As we age, the spinal discs lose their hydration and elasticity, making them less effective at cushioning the vertebrae.
- Wear and Tear: Daily activities, repetitive motions, or heavy lifting can gradually weaken the discs.
- Injury: A sudden trauma or injury to the spine can accelerate disc degeneration or lead to herniation.
- Genetic Factors: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to faster disc degeneration.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise can contribute to the degeneration process by reducing blood flow to the discs or placing extra pressure on the spine.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease:
Symptoms of DDD can vary in severity and location depending on the affected disc. Common symptoms include:
- Back or neck pain: Pain can occur in the area of the degenerated disc (lumbar spine for lower back or cervical spine for neck). Pain may range from mild to the severe.
- Pain that worsens with activity: Sitting, bending, twisting, or lifting can exacerbate pain.
- Pain that improves with movement: Some individuals find that walking or changing positions eases their pain.
- Nerve pain: If the degenerated disc compresses nearby nerves, it can cause radiculopathy, leading to symptoms such as:
– Sciatica: Pain that radiates down the buttock, leg, or foot (for lumbar DDD).
– Numbness and tingling in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the affected disc. - Weakness: Muscle weakness in the arms or legs may develop if nerves are compressed.
- Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and a stiff feeling in the back or neck are common.
Diagnosis of Degenerative Disc Disease:
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of:
- Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will assess your symptoms, range of motion, and any areas of tenderness.
- Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: To check for disc space narrowing or other spine abnormalities.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): To evaluate disc hydration, detect bulging or herniated discs, and assess nerve compression.
- CT Scan: May be used in certain cases to get a more detailed image of the spine.
Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease:
DDD progresses over time and typically follows these stages:
- Initial Degeneration: The disc begins to lose water content, and small tears may develop in the outer layer.
- Prolapse (Bulging Disc): The disc starts to bulge or protrude into the spinal canal, which may press on nearby nerves.
- Disc Herniation: The inner gel-like core of the disc can break through the outer layer, causing more severe nerve compression and pain.
- Disc Collapse: As the disc continues to lose height, the vertebrae may move closer together, leading to joint pain and the formation of bone spurs.
Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Physical Therapy:
- Strengthening exercises for the core muscles (back and abdomen) can provide better support for the spine.
- Stretching exercises can improve flexibility or reduce stiffness.
- Manual therapy may help improve mobility and relieve pain.
- Medications:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce pain or inflammation.
- Prescription pain medications: For more severe pain, doctors may prescribe stronger pain relievers or muscle relaxants.
- Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections near the affected disc can reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain.
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Weight loss: Reducing body weight can ease pressure on the spine.
- Smoking cessation: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the discs, accelerating degeneration.
- Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling can help maintain spine health.
- Heat and Ice Therapy:
- Ice packs can reduce inflammation or numb the area, while heat therapy helps relax tight muscles and increase blood flow to the area.
- Chiropractic Care:
- Some individuals find relief through spinal manipulation, though it is important to ensure that this treatment is safe for your specific condition.
- Acupuncture:
- Acupuncture may provide pain relief for some individuals with DDD by stimulating specific points on the body to promote healing.
Surgical Treatment:
Surgery is considered only when conservative treatments have failed and the symptoms significantly impact quality of life. Surgical options include:- Discectomy:
- Removal of part or all of the damaged disc that is pressing on nerves.
- Spinal Fusion:
- Fusion of two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and prevent further motion in the affected segment. This is a commonly done when a disc has significantly deteriorated.
- Artificial Disc Replacement:
- A newer option that involves removing the degenerated disc and replacing it with an artificial disc. This can help maintain spinal flexibility and function.
- Laminectomy:
- Removal of part of the vertebra (the lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often performed in conjunction with a discectomy or fusion.
What procedures Degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) procedures include:
1. Conservative management:
– Physical therapy
– Pain management with medication
– Lifestyle changes (exercise, weight loss, improved posture)
2. Interventional procedures:
– Epidural injections (steroids or pain relievers)
– Radiofrequency ablation
– Discography (diagnostic test)
3. Surgical procedures:
– Discectomy (removing the damaged disc)
– Microdiscectomy (minimally invasive discectomy)
– Laminectomy (removing a portion of the vertebra)
4. Minimally invasive procedures:
– Endoscopic spine surgery
– Tubular retraction surgery
– Laser spine surgery
5. Alternative procedures:
– Acupuncture
– Massage therapy
– Yoga and physical therapy
The choice of procedure depends on the severity and location of the condition, as well as the individual’s overall health. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
At our Neurosys Multispeciality Center, we perform several key procedures including Craniotomy, which is primarily for the excision of brain tumors; V-P Shunt Surgery for treating hydrocephalus; surgeries for epilepsy; and operations targeting brain stem glioma. Beyond these, we offer a range of other neurosurgical services. If you have any questions that are not answere, please contact us through our Contact Us or Book your Appointment.