What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition where the spinal discs between vertebrae break down over time, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. While some disc degeneration is normal with aging, DDD causes significant symptoms that interfere with daily activities.

The spinal discs act as shock absorbers between vertebrae, providing flexibility and cushioning. When these discs degenerate, they lose water content, become thinner, and may develop tears or cracks, leading to pain and inflammation.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

•Chronic lower back pain that worsens with sitting or bending
•Pain that radiates to the buttocks and thighs
•Stiffness and reduced flexibility in the spine
•Pain that improves with walking or changing positions
•Muscle spasms in the back
•Numbness or tingling in the legs (if nerves are affected)

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Non-surgical approaches for mild to moderate cases

✓Physical therapy and exercise programs
✓Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs
✓Epidural steroid injections
✓Lifestyle modifications (weight loss, smoking cessation)
✓Heat and cold therapy

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Advanced endoscopic procedures for severe cases

✓Endoscopic discectomy for nerve decompression
✓Endoscopic foraminotomy for nerve root relief
✓Percutaneous disc decompression
✓Radiofrequency ablation for pain relief

Traditional Surgery

Open procedures for complex cases

✓Spinal fusion for stabilization
✓Artificial disc replacement
✓Laminectomy for spinal canal decompression
✓Discectomy with fusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between degenerative disc disease and normal aging?

While some disc degeneration is normal with aging, degenerative disc disease (DDD) causes significant pain and functional limitations. DDD involves the breakdown of disc structure, loss of water content, and development of tears or cracks in the disc wall, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility.

Can degenerative disc disease be cured?

While the disc degeneration itself cannot be reversed, symptoms can be effectively managed. Treatment focuses on pain relief, improving function, and preventing further degeneration. Many patients achieve significant improvement with conservative treatment, while others benefit from minimally invasive procedures.

What is endoscopic discectomy and how effective is it for DDD?

Endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes damaged disc material through a small incision using specialized instruments and a camera. It has a success rate of 85-90% for degenerative disc disease, with patients typically experiencing significant pain relief and returning to normal activities within 2-4 weeks.

How long does recovery take after endoscopic discectomy?

Recovery from endoscopic discectomy is typically much faster than traditional open surgery. Most patients can return to light activities within 1-2 weeks, moderate activities within 4-6 weeks, and full activities within 2-3 months. The small incisions heal quickly with minimal scarring.

What lifestyle changes can help manage degenerative disc disease?

Key lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy weight, regular low-impact exercise (swimming, walking), proper posture, ergonomic workplace setup, smoking cessation, and avoiding activities that strain the spine. Physical therapy can also teach specific exercises to strengthen supporting muscles.

Degenerative Disc Disease