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Conditions We Treat

Degenerative Discs

Are you experiencing persistent back or neck pain that adversely impacts your daily life? It’s possible you might be dealing with a condition known as Degenerative Disc Disease.

Degenerative disc disease is a term used to describe the changes in your spinal discs as you get older. Spinal discs are soft, compressible discs that separate the interlocking bones (vertebrae) that make up the spine. The discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing it to flex, bend, and twist.

Although ‘disease’ can imply a progressively worsening state, this condition often stabilizes or improves with proper treatment. If you’re experiencing spine pain from degenerative disc disease, it’s time to begin your journey to experiencing relief. To receive a medical diagnosis and treatment specific to your needs, reach out to our team today.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of degenerative disc disease can vary, but they often include:

  • Pain that is often worse when sitting
  • Pain that worsens when bending, lifting, or twisting
  • Feeling better while walking or even running than while sitting or standing still
  • Pain when you reach up high with the arms
  • Numbness and tingling in the extremities

Who Does Degenerative Disc Disease Impact?

Degenerative disc disease can affect both men and women and is more common in people who:

  • Have a genetic predisposition
  • Are overweight
  • Smoke tobacco
  • Do heavy physical work
  • Have had an injury to their spine (such as from a fall or car accident)

Treatment Options

At Spine Team Texas, we offer comprehensive treatment options designed to alleviate the discomfort associated with degenerative disc disease, restore function, and improve quality of life. The treatments available to you will be dependent on how severe your condition is, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and your medical history. Often, our team will recommend non-surgical treatment options first, as the vast majority of patients with degenerative disc disease can be treated without surgery.

Non-surgical Treatments

  • Activity modification
  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Massage
  • Therapeutic modalities, exercise, and activities
  • Gait therapy
  • Nutritional counseling and medically supported weight loss
  • Trigger point injections
  • Over the counter or prescription medications
  • Return to work and activity training

Surgical Treatments

When conservative measures don’t provide relief, or if your condition is causing significant neurological deficits, our spine care experts may recommend surgical options, such as:

  • Artificial disc replacement
  • Spinal fusion
  • Minimally invasive spine surgery

If you’re experiencing spine pain, it’s time to begin your journey to experiencing relief. To receive a medical diagnosis and treatment specific to your needs, reach out to our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What lifestyle changes can help manage my symptoms?
A: Regular low-impact exercise, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good ergonomics can all aid in managing your symptoms.

Q: Can degenerative disc disease be reversed?
A: While the condition itself cannot be reversed, its symptoms can effectively be managed and quality of life greatly improved.

Q: Is degenerative disc disease considered a disability?
A: It depends on the severity and how much it limits your daily activities.

Our team offers an authoritative, professional yet accessible approach to tackle your needs. Using precision treatments and educational insights, we not only aim to provide relief but also to empower you with a deeper understanding of your condition. For a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care plan, Contact Us now.

Neck and back pain take the joy out of life. We’re here to help you find it again.

Our founder, Dr. David Rothbart, understood that people struggling with back or neck pain often fear surgery as the first option. He shared this concern, which is why he founded Spine Team Texas—to treat patients conservatively and avoid surgery as the initial solution. Dr. Rothbart’s team of carefully selected pain management experts has helped many patients find relief from their back and neck pain. Schedule your appointment today to find out how they can help you achieve your goals.
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Meet Walt Rutkowski

Physical trainer, businessman, & back pain conqueror

After enjoying physical training for many years, Walt developed a specific pain. He tried conservative treatments, but when it was time to find a surgeon, he knew who to call!

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