Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is the most common cause of back pain. It refers to the gradual breakdown of an intervertebral disc, which acts as a cushion between the vertebrae, allowing for flexibility and movement.

This condition begins with an annular tear, a small fissure in the outer layer of the disc called the annulus fibrosus. When this happens, the inner gelatinous nucleus pulposus can leak into the tear, triggering inflammation. This is the source of localised neck and back pain.

Over time, these discs lose hydration and elasticity, making them less effective at absorbing shock and supporting movement. This process can lead to bulging disc and herniation. Factors like genetics, repetitive stress, injuries, and lifestyle choices can trigger disc degeneration. 

Many individuals with degenerative disc disease remain asymptomatic, but in some cases, the condition can lead to chronic back or neck pain, reduced mobility, and nerve irritation, which may cause radiating pain in the arms or legs. 

Degenerative disc disease is a gradual process with no fixed timeline. Its progression varies from person to person. Some individuals experience slow disc deterioration over decades, while others develop symptoms more rapidly following an injury or repetitive strain. 

Degenerative disc disease is common among older adults, with prevalence increasing with age. By the age of 40, many people exhibit some degree of disc degeneration on imaging studies, though not all experience pain. 

However, symptomatic degenerative disc disease (where disc degeneration leads to chronic pain and functional impairment) affects a smaller percentage of the population.

This means that diagnosing and managing degenerative disc disease requires careful evaluation to distinguish between normal age-related changes and problematic disc degeneration.

As the body ages, spinal discs naturally lose hydration and elasticity, making them more vulnerable to strains and sprains. 

Our research indicates that younger individuals can also develop the condition, but for different reasons. Degenerative disc disease in early-to-mid life is usually caused by traumatic injuries or genetic predisposition.

Physically demanding occupations that involve heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or prolonged sitting can place excessive strain on the spine, accelerating disc degeneration. Obesity can also increase risk by adding extra stress to the spinal discs.

Degenerative disc disease is primarily caused by disc injuries from trauma. An initial annular tear can set off a cycle of inflammation and degeneration, gradually weakening the disc. Over time, repeated stress on the spine can cause further damage, increasing chronic pain.

The symptoms of degenerative disc disease vary depending on the severity and location of the degeneration. The most common symptom is localized back or neck pain, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest. 

The pain is often described as a dull, persistent ache that can flare up intermittently. Stiffness and reduced flexibility are also common, making certain movements more difficult.

In some cases, further degeneration can lead to pinched nerve roots, which cause radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs, but not the back or neck pain itself. 

Degenerative disc disease is diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Physicians first assess symptoms, including chronic back or neck pain, stiffness, and any radiating pain in the limbs. 

They also evaluate risk factors such as age, injury history, and lifestyle habits. In some cases, CT scans are conducted. A discogram, which involves injecting contrast dye into a disc, can also be used.

Based on our observations, MRI scans are an important tool for assisting with the diagnosis of degenerative disc disease. 

MRI provides detailed images of the spinal discs, revealing degeneration, herniated disc, and the 30 - 50 sources of pain, depending on the spine region. When paired with a spine exam, an MRI is a powerful way to determine spinal conditions.

Combining imaging with expert analysis, Deuk Spine Institute offers a free MRI review. We can pinpoint your pain generators with 99% diagnostic accuracy, helping you determine the best course of action, which we will discuss next.

Surgery is not always necessary for degenerative disc disease and is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments fail. However, if degenerative disc disease leads to chronic pain, surgical options may be considered.

Our findings show that traditional surgeries carry significant risks: prolonged recovery, postoperative pain, hardware failure, and temporary relief, which can lead to more surgeries down the line. 

Unlike these ineffective, highly invasive surgeries, Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a revolutionary, minimally invasive procedure with a 0% complication rate. This procedure precisely targets and removes the inflamed disc material without damaging surrounding tissues.

With a 0% complication rate and a rapid recovery time, patients will be discharged on the same day as the procedure.

Over-the-counter pain relievers and heat or cold therapy can provide temporary relief during flare-ups, but it is important to understand that home treatments do not reverse disc damage or eliminate the source of pain. If symptoms persist or worsen, professional evaluation is necessary. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Spine specialists, including orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons, offer diagnostic evaluations and treatment options. 

Pain management specialists and physiatrists also play a role in treating degenerative disc disease, particularly in administering injections or guiding rehabilitation. 

While traditional spine surgeons may suggest invasive procedures, the physicians at Deuk Spine Institute provide permanent relief without the risk.