Degenerative Disc Pain

What is degenerative disc pain?

Degenerative disc pain is stiffness, aching, or general discomfort caused by degenerative disc disease. 

Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition that causes the intervertebral discs to wear down. Intervertebral discs are rubbery gel-filled cushions that pad the vertebrae (spinal bones). If these cushions degenerate, your vertebrae rub against each other, causing stiffness and pain.

Disc degeneration is a normal part of aging. However, certain medical conditions, like spinal stenosis and scoliosis, can speed up the process and worsen symptoms. 

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc pain?

Degenerative disc pain symptoms include neck or back pain that may present as any of the following:

• Worsens when sitting, bending, or lifting
• Radiates down your buttocks and into your lower back
• Comes and goes for weeks, even months
• Leads to tingling and numbness in the arms and legs

If you have any of these symptoms and they don’t improve with conservative, at-home treatments, make an appointment at the Centers of Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine.

How is degenerative disc pain diagnosed?

Your provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including what the pain feels like and if certain activities, like getting out of bed or using tools, make it worse. Next, they complete a physical exam and order several rests, including:

Nerve function test

During this test, your provider checks your reflexes with a small hammer to test your reactions. If you have little or no reaction, it often indicates compressed or damaged nerves.

Strength test

This test evaluates your muscle strength. Often, weak or atrophied muscles indicate nerve damage or degenerated discs.

Diagnostic imaging

Diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), lets your provider evaluate the health and alignment of your intervertebral discs.

How is degenerative disc pain treated?

The Centers of Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine team treats degenerative disc pain using an integrative and minimally invasive approach. They could suggest:

• Physical therapy
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications or muscle relaxants
• Corticosteroid injections
• Epidural injections
• Therapeutic nerve blocks
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Trigger point injections
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Regenerative medicine
• Stem cell therapy
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Bone marrow concentrate therapy
• Viscosupplementation
• Alpha-2-macroglobulin therapy
• Ultrasound-guided injections

Call the nearest Centers of Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine office to schedule degenerative disc pain treatment, or book your appointment online today.