The spine is composed of vertebrae separated by discs. These discs work to help provide cushioning and allow movement. The discs are made up of a gelatinous center called the nucleus pulposus and a thick fibrous ring called the fibrous ring. When we age, these discs lose their hydration, causing the discs to become dry and lose height. Disc degeneration is the result of these thin discs.

Usually, the symptoms of degenerative disc disease occur gradually over time. A previous history of spinal problems is common. Due to the generative nature of this condition, people suffering from degenerative disc disease are generally over 50 years old but it can also occur in younger patients.

Symptoms

Back pain associated with degenerative disc disease can have a variety of signs and symptoms. Generally, activities that increase the pressure through the discs can aggravate the symptoms. Therefore, standing and walking can aggravate pain. Sitting puts most weight through the discs. Transition movements, such as going from sitting to standing, are also aggravating. Often, the symptoms in the morning increase but improve with movement and activity.

Symptoms of degenerative disc disease more often radiate through both the right and left parts of the lower back, but less frequently create symptoms of sciatica or symptoms that radiate to the legs. The movement of the lower back in an extended or arched position can be limited and painful. When experiencing symptoms related to degenerative disc disease, stiffness complaints are as frequent as pain complaints.

Diagnosis of disc degeneration

X-rays are the most common diagnostic tool in order to determine the presence of degenerative disc disease. An x-ray will show the space between the vertebrae and indicate if a narrowing has occurred. An MRI scan however shows much more detail and is the investigation of choice.

Treatment of discopathy (pain from degenerative disc disease)

As with many degenerative problems, the use of anti-inflammatory medications is a treatment option (check with your doctor regarding medication). Another useful means to reduce inflammation is the use of ice therapy. To help reduce inflammation of the lower back, ice in the lumbar, 10 to 15 minutes, three times a day. Minimize inflammation also avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms.

When oral anti-inflammatories are not effective in reducing back pain, epidurals may be recommended. The best practice for performing epidural anesthesia is to do them with fluoroscopy, which is simply the use of x-rays during the injection in order to help the doctor visualize exactly where the injection should be given. Specialists usually administer up to three epidurals per year.

As the symptoms of discopathy or degenerative disc disease worsen by disc compression, decompression can help minimize symptoms. One way to help decompress the discs is to use the 90-90 position. You can combine this position with ice therapy for additional benefit. Another way to provide this decompression is the use of an inversion table. Inversion devices use the weight of the upper body to create a traction effect on the spine, the decompression of the disc. However these methods are only temporary beneficial as the ultimate solution is to strengthen core muscles which support the spine and prevent pain from microinstability.

Surgery to replace discs or fuse discs are last resort options.

At the London Spine Unit, we have some of the best specialists to diagnose and treat disc degeneration. Book an appointment to get a checkup.

Other Links :

Discopathy of the lumbar-sacral segment and its influence on sexual dysfunction.

Risk Factors for Early Recurrence After Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Disc Decompression.

Minimally Invasive Induction of an Early Lumbar Disc DeBridging the Gap: Understanding Embryonic Intervertebral Disc Development.generation Model in Rhesus Monkeys.