Degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs – Osteochondrosis

Degenerative Disk Disease (Degenerative Disc Disease)

What is a degenerative disease of the intervertebral discs?

Disks lie between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers, protecting the spine and helping it stay flexible. Degenerative disc disease – deterioration of intervertebral discs,that causes pain and other symptoms. Some types of degeneration are alone, with age. Not all cases of degeneration of the intervertebral discs lead to the appearance of symptoms of the disease.

Reasons for degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Problematic discs, usually, become stiff, lose their elasticity. The fibrous tissue, which holds the disk material in place, may have small tears, which can lead to further damage. There is some evidence, that a role in causing the disease genetic factors may play.

Risk factors for degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Factors, that may increase the risk of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs include:

• Adult and old age;
• Family history of degenerative disk disease;
• Athletics;
• A back injury.

Symptoms of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Symptoms of degenerative intervertebral disc disease may include:

• Pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips or neck;
• Increased pain while in a sitting position, at the slopes, heavy lifting or twisting;
• Pain, which takes place when walking, the position or when in supine position;
• Periods of severe pain, which decreases after a few days or months;
• Numbness and tingling in the legs;
• Weakness in the legs;
• The inability to raise the foot at the ankle.

Diagnosis of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. Other tests may include:

• Blood and / or urine, to rule out other causes of pain;
• MRT – test, which uses magnetic waves, to make pictures of structures inside the body;
• Roentgen – test, which uses X-rays, to take a picture of structures inside the body, most often to take pictures of bones;
• Discography – Radiopaque dye is injected into the affected area, to provide more precise X-rays;
• EMG / nerve conduction analysis – neurophysiological tests, which are used in some cases to assess the state of the nerves in the area of ​​the damaged disc.

The treatment of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Methods of treatment of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs include:

Physiotherapy

Therapy for this condition is focused on teaching reduction of pain in the back. This may include:

• Learning proper posture;
• Exercising;
• Applying to the affected area with ice pack;
• Warming the affected area;
• Electrical stimulation;
• Relaxation;
• Other forms of physical therapy.

Steroid injections for the treatment of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Steroid injections can be used for short-term treatment of certain back pain. Steroids are introduced into the region around the exit of the nerves of the spinal cord.

The operation for the treatment of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

Surgery may be required for some severe cases. Surgery may involve removing the disc and fusion of two vertebrae together.

Prevention of degenerative diseases of the intervertebral discs

To protect the spine:

• Start doing the exercises, with the advice of a doctor;
• Maintain a healthy weight;
• If you have osteoporosis, Follow your doctor's instructions for the treatment of this disease.