Disc Degeneration

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is a term used to describe the wearing down of your intervertebral discs over time. While it’s not technically a disease, it is a chronic condition, and it generally afflicts older adults. It’s most commonly found in the neck or lumbar regions of the spine, as these are the areas that move the most as you go about your daily activities.

Although disc degeneration on its own will not likely lead to a permanent disability or progressively worsening symptoms, it can cause other issues to develop or to progress more quickly. These include osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The main symptoms of disc degeneration are a low-level but constant pain in the affected area, with intermittent flare-ups of more intense pain that can last days or weeks. The constant pain is the result of inflammation and muscle tension, while the flare-ups are often caused by unnatural micro-motions of the vertebrae that are made possible due to the diminished nature of the disc. These micro motions may cause impingement of a nerve, or they may simply exacerbate existing muscle tension and strain.

Diagnosing disc degeneration requires a combination of tests and physical exams that together provide a comprehensive picture of the health of your spine. These physical tests examine your range of motion, strength, and reflexes, while diagnostic imaging provides a clear picture of what’s going on inside.

Professional Chiropractic Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease

Dr. Gailes will evaluate the precise cause of your symptoms, as disc degeneration can cause pain in a number of different ways. She will then develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

This will likely include a combination of specific spinal manipulation, instrument-assisted manipulation and use of the flexion-distraction technique to restore your spine to proper alignment. We may also utilize soft tissue treatments like therapeutic massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to reduce tension and inflammation in the tissues around the affected area. Laser therapy may also be recommended to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and speed up recovery.
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Chiropractic care from Indian Harbor Chiropractic in Greenwich, CT is your best option, where Dr. Diana Gailes finds the root cause of your pain and treats it using a gentle, holistic approach. Call the office to book an appointment or schedule online today.