ABOUT
The terms disc degeneration, degenerative disc disease and spondylosis are often interchangeably used to describe an identical problem, whereby a compromised disc creates low (lumbar) back pain. Disc degeneration is considered a loss of hydration of the disc material, which leads to a decreased height in the disc. Consequently, this loss in height introduces increased stress on the facet joints of the spine, causing them to degenerate and in the process increase in size. Such changes often cause pressure on the nerve roots, resulting in sciatic-related pain.
Lumbar disc degeneration is quite common—so much that by the age of 50, 85 percent of the population will demonstrate degeneration/spondylosis. Most patients, however, are asymptomatic. If/when symptoms develop, the most common pain is mid to low back pain, with occasional radiation to the hips. The pain may also reside in the buttocks and/or the back side of the thighs during walking.
TREATMENT
A thorough physical examination is the first step in diagnosing lumbar disc degeneration. Typically, the neurological examination will be normal, with occasional decreased motion of the spine due to pain. An MRI examination usually reveals the degenerative changes, and this might be all that is needed for diagnosis. In some cases, further examination with lumbar myelogram and post-myelogram CT scanning and/or discography may be recommended.
Most symptomatic cases of disc degeneration resolve with non-surgical management. The absolute best treatment has yet to be determined, but bed rest is usually quite helpful in bringing pain relief. Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants are often prescribed. Steroids, taken orally or injected into the epidural space, may also be used in the pain management. Physical therapy and a home exercise program may also be helpful.
Surgical treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease
[Link to Spinal fusion for Degenerative Disc Disease]