Degenerative Disc Disease Solution

Degenerative Disc Disease Solutions

While a cure for degenerative disc disease (DDD) does not exist, our doctors use various available treatment options to manage symptoms. For instance, doctors can improve functionality, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with this condition. The treatment approach typically focuses on alleviating pain, preventing further degeneration, and maintaining or improving spinal function. The following present some common strategies used to address degenerative disc disease:

Conservative Management

• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
• Pain Medications: Doctors recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to symptom relief.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the spine and can slow down the degenerative process.
• Smoking Cessation: Doctors associate smoking with accelerated disc degeneration, and quitting can contribute to better outcomes.

Degenerative Disc Disease Solution – Physical Interventions

• Epidural Steroid Injections: Doctors consider Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) as minimally invasive procedures used to alleviate pain and inflammation in the spine. During an ESI, a corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic get injected into the epidural space around the spinal cord. This treatment aims to reduce swelling and irritation of the spinal nerves caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica.
• Facet Joint Injections: Doctors consider Facet joint injections as diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.  These injections will relieve pain originating from the facet joints of the spine. Facet joints refer to small joints located between adjacent vertebrae that enable spinal movement. During a facet joint injection, a combination of local anesthetic and steroid medication gets injected into the affected joint. This treatment not only helps diagnose the source of pain but also provides temporary pain relief within the facet joints.

Biological Treatments

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy refers to a non-surgical treatment that utilizes the patient’s own blood components to promote healing and reduce pain in injured tissues. During PRP therapy, a sample of the patient’s blood gets processed to concentrate platelets.  The platelets then get injected into the injured area. Platelets contain growth factors and other bioactive proteins.  The solution will stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, making PRP therapy popular for treating tendon, ligament, and joint injuries.

Degenerative Disc Disease Solution – Surgical Options

• Discectomy: A discectomy refers to a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc. During the procedure, the surgeon removes a portion of the herniated disc material that presses against the nerve, thereby alleviating pain and other symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the extremities.
• Spinal Fusion: Spinal fusion refers to a surgical technique used to permanently join two or more vertebrae in the spine. This procedure stabilizes the spine and reduce pain caused by spinal instability or degenerative conditions. It involves using bone grafts, metal implants, or a combination of both to promote the fusion of adjacent vertebrae over time.
• Artificial Disc Replacement: Artificial disc replacement (ADR) refers to a surgical alternative to spinal fusion for treating degenerative disc disease. In this procedure, the damaged natural disc gets replaced with an artificial one made of metal or a combination of metal and plastic. In addition, ADR aims to preserve spinal motion and flexibility while reducing pain and maintaining stability in the affected segment of the spine.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that the choice of treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease depends on various factors.  These include the severity of symptoms, the location of degeneration, the patient’s overall health, and individual preferences. Additionally, not all cases of degenerative disc disease require surgery, and many individuals find relief through non-surgical interventions.

For individuals looking for help with degenerative disc disease, they should consult with an orthopedic specialist who specializes in the spine. Also, our spine doctors will to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the patient’s condition and medical needs. Finally, our doctors will treat patients with individualized treatment plans, taking into account the unique characteristics of each patient’s case.

The Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute

The Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute is led by Dr. Richard A. Hostin, Dr. Devish Ramnath, and Dr. Ishaq Syed, and emerges as a top choice for scoliosis care for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the institute boasts a team of highly skilled and specialized physicians recognized for their expertise in scoliosis treatment and surgery. Secondly, the institute offers a patient-centered approach, providing individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition and needs. Thirdly, the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute combines state-of-the-art technology with a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that patients receive the most advanced and comprehensive care available. Lastly, the institute’s commitment to advancing spinal healthcare and its track record of successful outcomes position it as a premier destination for those seeking the best in scoliosis care.

If you suffer from Back Pain, we invite you to call our office and make an appointment at one of our three locations in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas.