Find Relief from Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the discs that cushion the bones of our spine naturally begin to wear down. For some people, these age-related changes can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. At Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics (CSMO), our multidisciplinary Spine Team provides comprehensive care for degenerative disc disease, helping patients relieve pain, restore function, and return to the activities they enjoy.
Our team includes fellowship-trained spine surgeons, interventional pain management physicians, advanced practice providers, and spine-focused physical therapists who work together to create a personalized treatment plan designed around your diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease. It describes the gradual breakdown of the spinal discs that naturally occurs with age.
As discs lose water and flexibility, they become thinner and less effective at cushioning the spine. These changes can lead to inflammation, instability, or pressure on nearby nerves.
Degenerative disc disease most commonly affects the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine).
What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
Symptoms vary depending on which part of the spine is affected.
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic neck or back pain
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting
- Stiffness
- Pain that improves with movement
- Muscle spasms
- Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling
If nerve compression develops, you may also experience pinched nerves, cervical radiculopathy, or lumbar radiculopathy (sciatica).
Can Degenerative Disc Disease Be Treated Without Surgery?
Yes.
Most patients improve with conservative treatment.
Treatment often includes:
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Image-guided spinal injections through Interventional Pain Management
- Home exercise programs
Our Spine Team focuses on relieving pain while improving strength and mobility before considering surgery.
How Does Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics Treat Degenerative Disc Disease?
Treatment may include:
- Evaluation by our Spine Specialists
- Spine-focused physical therapy
- Interventional pain management
- Advanced imaging
- Medication management
- Consultation with one of our spine surgeons when needed
For patients who require surgery, our surgeons offer advanced options including Motion Preservation Spine Surgery and Cervical Disc Replacement for appropriate candidates.
When Should You See a Spine Specialist?
Schedule an evaluation if you have:
- Neck or back pain lasting several weeks
- Pain that radiates into an arm or leg
- Numbness or weakness
- Difficulty walking
- Pain that limits daily activities
The sooner your symptoms are evaluated, the sooner the Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics Spine Team can help you find relief. Don’t wait.