subject: Chiropractor Knoxville Tn | Disc Degeneration; A Common Condition Of Aging [print this page] There is little we can do about growing olderThere is little we can do about growing older. If you are lucky enough to live a long life, some degree of wear and tear is expected and disc degeneration is just part of the process. Understanding what causes this condition may help patients make good treatment choices.
The Physical Structure of Discs -
Between each pair of vertebrae is a spinal disc. This disc acts as a shock absorber each time you step, jump or move. They are part of the system that provides you with such wonderful range of motion. Comprised of two parts, the outer annulus fibrosus, and the inner nucleus pulposa, the discs are rarely noticed unless something goes wrong.
Degeneration Takes Time -
There are many factors that cause discs to age, but as they do they become less able to perform their shock absorptive task. The outer walls become less flexible and more prone to damage. The annulus fibrosis may develop small cracks, bulges and even complete herniation.
Because the discs and the vertebrae help create the spinal canal where the spinal chord run, disc degeneration may affect the function of spinal nerves. When a disc herniates the material inside the disc can ooze out and put pressure on the spinal cord, the nerve roots or other nearby structures.
Discs can also shrink in size bringing vertebrae closer together and increasing the likelihood of bone on bone irritation. Arthritis often starts this way. Some causes of disc degeneration are recognized, for example smoking, but genetics also play a role in the disease.
Conservative Treatment Options for DDD -
Degenerative disc disease, DDD, is a progressive condition, and fortunately, quite treatable. Conservative treatment is the gold standard, involving physical therapy and medications to control pain.
Initially your care provider will suggest you take over the counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen or other NSAIDs. Any anti-inflammatory medication needs to be taken regularly to maintain the pain relieving and inflammation reducing effects. If OTC medications don't provide enough pain relief, prescription medications will be recommended.
Equally important to the treatment of DDD is exercise. Both passive and active exercises are used to help strengthen the muscles that support the back. Because DDD never goes away, you will need to engage in a regular exercise regimen for the rest of your life, so expect to make a commitment if you want to minimize your pain.
A number of alternative therapies are also considered reasonable to try. Popular alternative treatments include acupuncture, prolotherapy and herbal supplements.
Surgical Options May be Considered -
If conservative treatment options fail to produce the results you want it may be time to consider surgical solutions. Depending on the level of degeneration, surgery may involve simply removing extra material to reduce nerve compression or something as comprehensive as fusing together several vertebrae.
Some surgeries are minimally invasive and require little time in the hospital; other procedures involve a long recovery period. Surgery isn't always effective so it is important to have realistic expectations when considering a surgical solution to DDD.
For most people DDD is a condition that can be well managed ensuring a good quality of life. Speak to your doctor about your options if you suspect you may have DDD.
