Degenerative disc disease in spine
As you get older your body starts wearing down. No matter how good your lifestyle is and how much you work out, your body will still need some assistance and support at some time. One such degenerative disease is the spinal degenerative disc disease. It is an age related disease which happens when the discs between the vertebrae of the spine start to depreciate and wane which can cause pain. The condition can lead to weakness and numbness in the lower limbs on several cases.
It is not a disease but a health condition occurring primarily due to age. The normal discs are rubbery and show bending and flexibility but at the same time also depict the shock absorbency. With time, they start to wear out and offer less flexibility and protection. The bulging and swelling in the vertebrae is known as a herniated disc.
The major symptoms of the degenerative disc disease in spine include the discomfort in mobility which increases with time. The pain in the lumbar region and numbness in the lower limbs as well as cervical spine and upper limbs are also common. Flaring of the face and limitation of mobility are the other symptoms. The major causes include the damage to the intervertebral discs as ones ages. The loss of fluid and the changes in the disc structure can lead to the deterioration of the cartilage and decrease the cushioning of the joints while tightening the spinalcanal leading to spinal stenosis.
The risk factor for the disease involve the most significant impact which is age of the person. Also, obesity, injuries or fall, smoking and extreme physical work are leading risk factors of the disease. In order to diagnose degenerative disc disease, Dr. Nordt always performs a full Spine Physical Exam. He will check for symptoms of any sort of tingling or numbness in the limbs as well as any recent fall or injury. The muscle strength and atrophy are also assessed. The nerve functions are also assessed during the exam. In rare cases, Dr. Nordt may request further imaging studies using CT scans and or MRI. A Discogram is can be used as well as assess the damage to the disc.
The main course of treatment which is usually given given is physical therapy to strengthen weak muscles. Dr. Nordt will also recommend special exercises, over the counter medications, and possible discuss weight loss if the patient is overweight. Surgery is always the last resort in the majority of these cases.
In regards to medical therapeutic treatments, the use of oral steroids or steroidal injections can be recommended if conservative options have not produced results. A common steroidal injection known as the facet joint injections can provide some pain relief.
Medicines like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually prescribed as a first line of defense and Dr. Nordt will follow the patient closely to monitor improvements.
If you have someone at home who is suffering from this disease, make sure that they exercise regularly (walk at least a good 45 minutes everyday). In severe cases, make sure that you reach out to Dr. Nordt to assess the need for further intervention. If a Neurosurgeon or Spine Surgeon is immediately suggesting surgery, it’s critical to get a second opinion.
