Treatment for degenerative disk disease
Degenerative disk disease (DDD) is an illness that affects the disks in your spine. They act as cushions between the vertebrae, and when they become damaged or worn down, they could cause pain and other problems. While there isn’t any cure for DDD however, there are treatments available to enhance your life quality. In this blog, we will discuss the many treatment options for DDD that include surgery and non-surgical methods. We will also discuss how you can treat your symptoms and live an active life with this illness. So if you are suffering from DDD continue reading – we have some helpful tips for you!
What is degenerative disc disease and what are the symptoms
Degenerative disk disease is a condition characterized by the deterioration of the disks which cushion the vertebrae of your spine. The disks are created to absorb shock and shield your vertebrae against wear and tear. But, as time passes they begin to degrade and less effective in providing cushioning to the spinal column. This can cause stiffness, pain and other symptoms. Degenerative disk disease is typically caused by aging as well as repetitive movements. However, it can also result from injury or infections. degenerative disk disease is usually managed with conservative measures such as rest, ice, heat, as well as physical therapy. In some instances, chiropractic treatment or surgery could be required. degenerative disk diseases can be very painful and can be debilitating. But, with the right treatment, many people are able to control their symptoms and lead an ordinary life.
How is it treated with surgery or non-surgical methods?
Degenerative disk disease is one of the most frequent spinal degenerative diseases. It happens when the disks that cushion the vertebrae in the spine begin breaking down, causing pain and stiffness. Degenerative disk disease is treated by surgery or non-surgical techniques.
Non-surgical options include:
- Physical therapy helps to improve the range of motion as well as relieve pain.
- Adjustments to the chiropractic system are used to align the spine and relieve the pressure on the discs.
- Massage massage: to relax muscles and ease tension.
- Acupuncture uses acupuncture to increase healing and lessen the pain.
The surgical methods are:
- Disk replacement to replace the damaged disk with an artificial disk.
- Fusion is the process used to connect vertebrae together so they can heal together as one piece.
- Laminectomy: to remove a tiny piece of bone from the vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spine cord and nerves.
Degenerative disk disease can be an uncomfortable condition, however there are treatments that can help improve symptoms and level of living. Consult your physician about which treatment option is right for you.
What are the potential risks and benefits of every type of treatment?
Degenerative disk disease can be treated by medical intervention including chiropractic care or physical therapy. It can also be treated with surgery. Each treatment has its own risks and advantages. Chiropractic is a non-surgical treatment which relies on manual adjustments to improve the spine’s alignment and relieve discomfort. Physical therapy is a conservative treatment that employs exercises to strengthen muscles and increase the mobility. Surgery is the last option that involves Fusion as well as artificial disc replacement. Each treatment has its own risk and advantages It is therefore important to talk with your doctor to figure out which option is best for you.
How can you prepare yourself for surgery if that is the method of treatment you have chosen?
Degenerative disk disease surgery is an option when other treatments, such as physical therapy, pain medications, and injections with steroids, haven’t performed. Degenerative disk disease surgery involves taking out the damaged disk then replacing the damaged disk with a new disk or bone graft. There is also the possibility of having degenerative disk surgery to treat a herniated disc or bone spur. Degenerative disk disease surgery is very risky and can cause risks and potential complications, so you will want to be certain to speak to your doctor about all possibilities before deciding if the degenerative disc disease procedure is suitable for you.
What should you expect after surgery
The aim of degenerative disk disease surgery is to alleviate discomfort and enhance functionality. There are a few different types of degenerative disc disease surgery, and the specific procedure you will need to undergo will depend on the specific condition you’re suffering from. However, generally speaking, degenerative disk disease surgery involves removing from the affected disk before replacing it an artificial disk or donor disk. The procedure is typically performed with a tiny cut on your back. After the surgery, you are likely to remain in hospital for at least a few days. There’s a good chance that you’ll need painkillers for the initial few weeks. There may be a need to use a brace or crutches. Physical therapy will also be an important part of your recovery. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few months. If you have degenerative disk diseases, talk to your doctor about whether surgery to treat degenerative disk disease is the best option for you.
Non-surgical treatments for degenerative disc disease. What are they and how effective are they?
There are numerous nonsurgical treatment options for degenerative disk disease, and the most effective one is determined by the severity of your condition. Chiropractic treatment is a non-surgical treatment that can be effective for mild to moderate degenerative disk diseases. The procedure involves manipulating your spine in order to align vertebrae, and reduce disc pressure. Physical therapy is a nonsurgical treatment that helps strengthen the muscles around the spine and relieve the discomfort. In some instances epidural steroid injections or surgery might be required to treat degenerative disk disease.
If you’re suffering from any of the signs of disc degenerative disease it’s essential to seek treatment. Two treatments available are surgery and non-surgical methods. Each method has its own risk and benefits , which should be considered prior to making a decision about which option is best for you. Surgery is an extensive procedure that has inherent risks, but it is the best option for people who suffer from extreme pain or other debilitating symptoms. Non-surgical treatment options are less invasive however they might fail to be effective in dealing with all types of disease. Whichever treatment you decide to pursue, it is important to be realistic about what to expect and how long it will take to fully recover.