Degenerative Disc Disease
Pain Management Specialists located in Orland Park, Oakbrook Terrace and Aurora, IL
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common source of back pain that occurs as you age. Though you can’t stop the aging process, Arif Hussain, DO, Joseph Rabi, MD, and the team at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute in Homer Glen, Illinois, can provide treatments to ease discomfort brought on by DDD. To schedule a pain management consultation, call the office or book online today.
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a spine condition that develops from the natural wear-and-tear of the spine that occurs over time. Your spine comprises a series of bones called vertebrae. An intervertebral disc cushions each bone.
The intervertebral discs have a tough exterior and soft, gel-like center that cushions the bones and acts as shock absorbers during movement. As you get older, these discs lose some of their moisture, affecting the size of the disc and making them more vulnerable to damage.
Everyone’s intervertebral discs degenerate with age. When this occurs, there’s less space and cushioning between the vertebral bones, so they rub together, causing pain and inflammation.
The degenerative changes also lead to other conditions like spinal stenosis and herniated disc.
You can have DDD and not have any symptoms. Discomfort may occur when the changes in the spine compress or irritate a spinal nerve or the spinal cord. Some of the symptoms you may have with DDD include:
DDD is a progressive condition, and symptoms worsen over time. The Neuroscience and Spine Institute specializes in diagnosing and treating DDD and can provide the pain relief you need.
You should see the pain management experts at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute for DDD when over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers fail to control your back or neck pain.
At your initial visit, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history. They perform a physical exam and request X-rays or MRIs of your spine to assess the severity of the degeneration.
Your provider at The Neuroscience and Spine Institute customizes your DDD treatment plan to match your needs and goals. They talk to you about your spine condition and the types of treatments that can ease the pain and improve your quality of life.
Treatments for DDD include:
Surgery is rarely necessary for DDD, but your provider may refer you to a surgeon if their pain management interventions fail to improve your discomfort.
Call The Neuroscience and Spine Institute or schedule an appointment online today.