How We Can Help Slow The Progression of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) may start slowly, but eventually, the pain can progress to the point that it is debilitating. Thankfully, we can help you slow the progression of degenerative disease and ease the discomfort it causes.

For nearly 50 years, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons in Raleigh have helped patients get their lives back from conditions such as DDD. As one of Wake County’s oldest and well-respected practices, we emphasize personalized care from our leading, fellowship-trained orthopedists. If you are struggling with back pain, please don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.

In this article, we’ll explore the progression of degenerative disc disease, how it can be prevented and effective treatments that can help. 

Can The Progression of Degenerative Disc Disease Be Slowed?

During DDD, the disc “cushions” between your vertebrae eventually wear down, causing pain as the bones rub together. It’s considered a natural part of aging, but it can lead to other problems, such as a herniated disc or adult scoliosis. 

The good news is that adopting a few healthy lifestyle habits can slow the degradation. We recommend:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• If you smoke, quit (and if you don’t smoke, don’t start). Remember that vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking.
• Getting regular physical activity, which can also help increase your flexibility. (Our in-house physical therapists can help you find appropriate exercises.)

We’ll take time to meet with you and review your wellness goals that will have the most likelihood of reducing your pain and slowing the progression of degenerative disc disease.

At What Age Do Spinal Discs Begin to Wear Down?

As noted earlier, this type of disc wear is a normal part of aging. After age 40, it’s very common for people to experience some degree of disc degeneration. It’s also important to note that not everyone experiences back pain in the early stages of the disease. 

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) Among Age Groups

According to information from Vanderbilt Health:

• By the age of 20, 37% have DDD
• That number increases to 80% for those in their 50s.
• Of those who are 80 years old or older, 96% have DDD. 

Are There Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease?

There are four main stages of degenerative disc disease. We’ll take a closer look at each one.

1. Dysfunction: During this stage, your discs have slowly started to degenerate. You may notice milder symptoms at this point.
2. Dehydration: During this stage, your spinal discs are drying out, which causes them to lose flexibility. Your back pain gets worse. 
3. Stabilization: At this point, your spine attempts to stabilize itself. This can cause spinal stenosis (a condition where the spinal canal narrows) and extensive pain.
4. Collapse: During this stage, you’re most likely in severe pain because the bones in your spine now rub together and press against your nerves. 

Our Effective Treatments for Degenerative Disc Disease

Even though we can slow the progression of degenerative disc disease, it is vital to implement the latest treatment techniques to enable our patients to get their lives back again. 

Some treatments we may utilize include:

• Physical therapy through our convenient in-house physical therapy services. Our certified physical therapists work closely with our doctors and all members of your health care team.
• Medications, particularly:
  • NSAIDs
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Steroids
  • Neuromodulation medication 
  • Steroid injections
• Radiofrequency neurotomy, where we use electric currents to help prevent pain signals from reaching your brain

While most people will not need surgery for DDD, for those who do, our experienced surgeons use the latest state-of-the-art techniques to help ensure a complete recovery so you can return to your regular activities as quickly as is safely possible. 

What Other Conditions Can Be Caused by DDD?

DDD can lead to other conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis
• Scoliosis
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolysis 
• Spondylolisthesis

We Invite You to Experience Relief by Slowing the Progression of Degenerative Disc Disease

When it comes to DDD, timely intervention is critical because it is a disease that gradually gets worse over time. Although it’s a natural part of aging, it can cause intense pain.

Fortunately, our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedists in Raleigh have the decades of experience needed to provide the treatments you need. Are you experiencing intense back pain? Don’t hesitate; contact us for an appointment today.