Spinal discs are susceptible to degenerative disease. The wear and tear on spinal discs and other factors can result in the discs becoming weaker, brittle and compact. Aging deterioration of spinal discs occurs in everyone, but not everyone experiences degenerative disc disease, or DDD. In DDD, the spinal discs can rupture or slip, causing pain and instability. At Hanowell Spine Clinic, we offer degenerative disc disease treatment at our facility in Covington, GA to help combat back and neck pain.
Unlike aging wear and tear on spinal discs that occurs later in life, many people with DDD begin having issues in their 30-40s. Technically, DDD is not a disease but a combination of symptoms that are a result of premature disc deterioration. The outer portion of a spinal disc is a tough, fibrous material that contains nerves, while the inner, soft material does not. If the outer layer of the disc tears, it can cause extreme pain. Whereas, when the inner material leaks and touches other tissues, it can cause inflammation and irritation to the surrounding nerves. Both these circumstances can occur with DDD, resulting in back pain, sciatica and other symptoms. Spinal discs are unable to repair themselves and may need degenerative disc disease treatment to manage symptoms.
Managing DDD Symptoms
In many cases, degenerative disc disease treatment involves minimizing symptoms and reducing pain. Physical therapy, steroid injections and other pain management methods can be used to control symptoms in many cases. In more severe cases, repairing or replacing the spinal discs through surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments are ineffective.
If you have increased back pain when sitting for long periods or when twisting and bending, you may have DDD. To find the source of your pain and begin a treatment plan, contact our spine specialists at Hanowell Spine Clinic in Covington, GA, for an exam and consultation.