Degenerative disc disease is as bad as it sounds. It is a chronic, often-debilitating condition that often robs a person of his or her quality of life. Here are some of the common causes of the problem, as well as information on treatments that can help patients get back to living the life they love.
Causes
In most cases, degenerative disc disease is the result of a traumatic injury or simple wear and tear due to age. When the discs in the spine are crushed or pinched, severe pain and a reduced range of motion are common.
Symptoms can be varied. Sometimes a person hardly notices the problem at all when it is first starting. You may have minor aches and pains in your back or neck that could easily be written off to poor posture or sleeping wrong. As then condition progresses, however, the pain worsens. Often times it can result in a disability so severe that it can rob you of the ability to perform even the simplest tasks.
Treatments
At Advanced Spine and Orthopedics, we will always opt for a conservative method to treatment first. This often includes physical therapy to help strengthen muscles, improve posture and reduce the stress on the affected discs. In severe instances of degenerative disc disease, however, surgery may be needed. If the proper treatment program is not put in place, symptoms will very likely worsen over time, leading to intensive treatment options.
If you have reason to believe you are developing degenerative disc disease, please see the experts at Advanced Spine and Orthopedics. We will perform a thorough examination, pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort, and then design a tailored treatment program to best address your symptoms. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call 817-310-8783.
