Your degenerative discs are similar to shock absorbers found between the bones of your spine. They are responsible for ensuring your back stays flexible, allowing you to bend or twist easily. As you age, they start breaking down by showing signs of wear and tear. Whenever you notice your worn-out disc is hurting, you might have degenerative disc disease (DDD). Luckily, repairs of degenerative disc Shrewsbury have got you covered, so there is no reason to tense. Here is the most frequently asked question about degenerative disc disease.
Who Is At A Higher Risk of Getting Degenerative Disc Disease?
In most cases, DDD is popular among older adults. Other factors, such as obesity and smoking, increase the chance of degenerative disc disease. Also, working in highly demanding jobs and acute injuries like falling surges the vulnerability of getting DDD.
What Are The Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
The most common signs and symptoms of DDD are back and neck pain. The pain mainly comes and disappears, which lasts for some weeks or months at a given period. The pain may also contribute to tingling or numbness in the legs or arms or deteriorate when you sit or bend.
What Are the Causes of DDD?
Your spinal disks comprise a soft inner core and a solid, tough outer wall. With time the disks vary, contributing to DDD. For instance, drying out of the discs increases the risk because as you age, it loses water and becomes thinner. Also, cracks caused by the stress of everyday movements may lead to wear and tear of the discs.
How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?
After visiting your healthcare provider, they may begin by inquiring about the signs and symptoms. Common questions may include when the pain began, the location of the pain, activities causing and decreasing the pain, and other symptoms like numbness. Alternatively, your doctor may perform an X-Ray and CT to show the alignment of the disks. A physical exam may be necessary to examine your nerve function, strength, and pain levels.
How Is DDD Treated?
Your healthcare provider may recommend an adequate plan related to your symptoms and the severity of the condition. Medication is one option using over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin to eliminate inflammation. Other treatment options include physical therapy, steroid shots, or surgery if other treatment fails to work.
How Can You Treat Degenerative Disc Disease at Home?
Exercise such as walking and swimming can assist in strengthening your back muscles and alleviate some pain. Also, hot and cold therapy: alternating ice packs and heating pads for about 15 minutes at three different times a day can reduce soreness.
How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Prevented?
Measures such as preserving healthy body weight are integral in preventing the disease. Besides, staying away from smoking and engaging in exercise is crucial in surging the flexibility and strength of your discs.
Get Degenerative Disc Treatment Today
Diagnosing DDD early and seeking treatment before it worsens is integral. Consult your provider regularly if you need to know more about degenerative discs. What if the doctor is fully booked? Do not worry because the Center for the Functional Restoration of the Spine in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, is here for you. The center comprises a board of specialists, Steve Paragioudakis, MD, and Marc Menkowitz, MD, offering outstanding DDD treatment. Call their offices or book an appointment using the online platform today to enjoy their services.
