Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease occurs when the spinal discs deteriorate, leading to inflammation and chronic pain. This happens as a result of:
- Disc wear and tear – Over time, discs lose hydration and elasticity, reducing their ability to cushion the spine.
- Chemical reactions within the disc – Damaged discs release inflammatory chemicals, causing pain and stiffness in the affected area.
- Structural changes – The vertebrae on either side of the affected disc may develop chronic pain and stiffness.
Studies estimate that discogenic pain accounts for 28-40% of chronic neck and back pain cases.
If you are suffering from ongoing spinal pain, OPS Surgery Center can provide expert diagnosis and treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease depend on which part of the spine is affected:
- Lower Back (Lumbar DDD)
- Centralized pain in the lower back
- Pain worsens with sitting, coughing, sneezing, or bending
- Lying down or standing may provide relief
- Neck (Cervical DDD)
- Pain worsens with prolonged bending
- Muscle spasms and stiffness in the neck
Diagnosis: Identifying Discogenic Pain
At OPS Surgery Center, we use a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm degenerative disc disease, including:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Advanced imaging tests, such as MRI, X-ray, or CT scan, to assess disc degeneration
- Discography, in some cases, to determine if a specific disc is the source of pain
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and restore function.
Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease
At OPS Surgery Center, we offer advanced, non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Conservative Treatment Approaches
- Physical therapy – Strengthens the muscles supporting the spine
- Pain management strategies – Anti-inflammatory medications and activity modification
Interventional Pain Management Therapies
- Epidural Injections – Targeted anti-inflammatory injections to relieve nerve irritation
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Uses heat energy to desensitize pain-causing nerves
- Facet Joint Blocks – Helps diagnose and treat pain from arthritic spinal joints
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Options
- Intradiscal Treatments – Innovative therapies to promote disc healing
- Intracept Procedure – A non-surgical, minimally invasive radiofrequency ablation targeting the basivertebral nerve to relieve chronic low back pain
- Disc Replacement Surgery – An option for severe cases where conservative treatments have not been effective
Restore Your Spine Health with OPS Surgery Center
Degenerative disc disease is a progressive condition, but early intervention and advanced treatment options can significantly improve pain relief and mobility. At OPS Surgery Center, we specialize in personalized, state-of-the-art treatments to help you regain function and live pain-free.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and explore the best treatment options for your condition!
