Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a common condition that affects the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of function. It occurs when the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, begin to deteriorate due to aging, injury, or wear and tear. While the term “degenerative” might sound alarming, it’s important to note that this condition is part of the natural aging process for many people. For others, it may be caused by genetics, lifestyle factors, or previous spinal injuries. Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas specialize in diagnosing and treating DDD, offering a variety of treatments to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Diagnosis of Degenerative Disc Disease
Before determining a treatment plan, orthopedic surgeons will begin with a thorough evaluation. This typically includes a review of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. These imaging studies help the surgeon assess the extent of disc degeneration and identify any other potential causes of pain, such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the surgeon can recommend a treatment strategy tailored to the patient’s specific condition.
Eric F Berkman MD – Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas. Specializing in treating various orthopedic conditions of shoulder, elbow, knee, hand, and foot and ankle. Orthopedic injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents, sports and in daily activities. He offers a comprehensive and high quality medical care for his patients. Dr Berkman offers the best possible treatment and utmost care to each individual to restore freedom of movement and relieve the pain of diseased and degenerative joints
Non-Surgical Treatments
In most cases, surgery is not immediately necessary, and orthopedic surgeons will first attempt to manage the symptoms of DDD through non-surgical methods. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance the patient’s ability to function on a day-to-day basis.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for DDD. A physical therapist will teach patients exercises to strengthen the muscles around the spine, which can help reduce the load on the discs and improve posture. Stretching exercises may also increase flexibility, reduce stiffness, and promote better spinal alignment, which alleviates pain and prevents further degeneration.
Pain Management
Orthopedic surgeons may recommend a variety of pain management strategies. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. For more intense pain, oral steroids or epidural steroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the affected area. In some cases, nerve blocks or other injection therapies may also be considered to target specific pain sources.
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding activities that exacerbate pain, and engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming or walking can all help manage DDD symptoms. Surgeons may advise patients to stop activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or bending to prevent additional strain on the spine.
Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, or when symptoms severely impact a patient’s daily life, surgery may become necessary. The decision to pursue surgery is often made after careful consideration of the risks, benefits, and the patient’s overall health.
Spinal Fusion
One common surgical procedure is spinal fusion. During this operation, the surgeon joins two or more vertebrae together, eliminating motion between them. This can help stabilize the spine and prevent further disc degeneration. While spinal fusion can significantly reduce pain, it also limits the mobility of the affected area.
Artificial Disc Replacement
In some cases, an orthopedic surgeon may recommend artificial disc replacement. This involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial one made of metal and plastic. The goal is to maintain spinal motion while relieving pain caused by the damaged disc. This procedure is typically considered for younger, more active patients who are not candidates for fusion.
Laminectomy or Discectomy
For patients with significant nerve compression due to degenerative disc changes, procedures such as a laminectomy or discectomy may be necessary. A laminectomy involves removing part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, while a discectomy removes part or all of a herniated or degenerated disc. These surgeries aim to alleviate pain and improve mobility by addressing the underlying cause of nerve irritation.
Degenerative Disc Disease is a challenging condition that can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, orthopedic surgeons are equipped with a variety of treatment options ranging from non-surgical approaches like physical therapy and pain management to advanced surgical procedures such as spinal fusion and artificial disc replacement. By working closely with a skilled orthopedic surgeon, patients can find the most effective treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, enabling them to lead an active, pain-free life.