Degenerative Disc Disease in Boston
As you age, your risk for developing degenerative disc disease increases. When the pain becomes too much, the specialists at Boston Advanced Medicine can help. You can receive comprehensive care and a custom treatment plan to alleviate chronic pain and increase your overall functionality. Find out more about treatment options for degenerative disc disease by scheduling a consultation with our office today.
Degenerative Disc Disease Q & A
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease occurs when one or more of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of your spine progressively breaks down as you age. Without the protection of the gel-like discs, your vertebrae can rub together, resulting in chronic pain and other symptoms.
Your risk for developing the condition increases as you get older. Discs are no longer as flexible as they used to be, and they can’t protect your vertebrae as effectively.
What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease can cause chronic pain in your back in the area where the damaged discs reside.
You may also experience pain that radiates down into your leg, as well as numbness or weakness that makes it difficult to walk or sit comfortably.
How is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?
To determine if degenerative disc disease is the cause of your back or leg pain, your Boston Advanced Medicine provider may request imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to get a closer look at your spinal column.
Your provider also reviews your medical history, the severity of your pain, and other symptoms to create a treatment plan. The goal of a custom treatment is to alleviate chronic pain and help you retain your mobility and better overall functioning.
What Treatments are Available for Degenerative Disc Disease?
Initially, your Boston Advanced Medicine provider may recommend rest, over-the-counter medications, and ice or heat therapy to improve your comfort. They may also suggest exercises that strengthen the muscles that support your spine.
If these treatments don’t provide sufficient pain relief, your provider may administer injections that contain anesthetic medicines. These injections, known as facet joint injections, are effective at reducing inflammation and pain in joints surrounding the vertebrae.
For those who continue to experience debilitating pain as a result of degenerative disc disease, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged disc. This is often the last resort in treatment, with a goal to address the root cause of your pain to ensure long-term pain relief.
If degenerative disc disease is reducing your quality of life, learn more about your treatment options by calling our office today.
