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 discomfort from degenerative disc disease, restore function, and improve quality of life. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition, your symptoms, and your medical history. Often, our team recommends 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.
