Lower back pain is very common and affects lots of people. One possible cause is a condition called degenerative disc disease. Despite the name, it is not really a disease. It is a term used to describe the natural wear and tear that happens to the discs in your spine as you age. For some people, it does not cause any pain. However, for others, it can lead to ongoing discomfort and make daily life harder.
By learning more about this condition, you can better understand your symptoms. You can also find ways to manage lower back pain from degenerative disc disease.
How Degenerative Disc Disease Causes Lower Back Pain
To understand how degenerative disc disease leads to lower back pain, you need to know the role of spinal discs. These discs are located between the vertebrae in your spine and act as cushions. They allow for movement, flexibility, and shock absorption during activities like walking, bending, and sitting.
Over time, the spinal discs naturally undergo changes that can cause them to lose their structure and function. Factors such as aging, repetitive activities, or injuries can accelerate this wear and tear.
Below is a breakdown of the specific ways degenerative disc disease contributes to lower back pain.
Loss of Disc Hydration
Healthy discs are composed of a jelly-like center surrounded by a fibrous outer layer. With age or constant pressure, the discs begin to lose hydration and shrink. When this occurs, the cushioning effect of the discs decreases significantly.
This loss of hydration also makes the discs more prone to tearing or fraying. This can then lead to discomfort and inflammation in the surrounding tissues.
Disc Herniation or Bulging
When a disc becomes weakened or damaged, its inner core can push through the outer layer. This is called a herniated or bulging disc and can exert pressure on nearby spinal nerves.
Nerve compression often results in lower back pain and tingling. It can even lead to numbness that radiates into the legs, a condition known as sciatica.
Thickened Ligaments and Bone Spurs
Another consequence is the thickening of the spinal ligaments and the formation of bone spurs. Both of these develop as the body tries to stabilize the spine. However, these changes can narrow the space through which spinal nerves pass. This condition, known as spinal stenosis, can lead to persistent pain or limited mobility.
Micro-Movements of Vertebrae
When spinal discs lose their height and structural integrity, they can no longer hold the vertebrae securely in place. This instability results in micro-movements of the vertebrae. This, in turn, can irritate surrounding nerve endings and muscles. These micro-movements often cause intermittent flare-ups of lower back pain from degenerative disc disease.
Muscle Tension and Spasms
Degenerative disc disease does not just affect the spine; it often impacts the surrounding muscles.
Pain or instability in the spine can cause your muscles to work harder to maintain proper alignment. Over time, this can lead to muscle tension, stiffness, or even painful spasms. These can further amplify lower back pain from degenerative disc disease.
When to Visit an Orthopedic Doctor
Occasional lower back pain is fairly common. Pain relief for lower back pain might not always require medical intervention. However, seek help if you are experiencing persistent or debilitating pain.
Knowing when to consult an orthopedic doctor can make all the difference in managing your pain. A trusted specialist can help you get effective degenerative disc disease treatment.
Do not ignore the following signs:
- Pain that lasts more than six weeks
- Radiating pain or numbness
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Reduced quality of life
What an Orthopedic Doctor Can Do
An orthopedic doctor specializes in conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. This includes your spine. Let’s look at how a doctor for lower back pain near you can help.
Diagnosis and Assessment
If you have lower back pain from degenerative disc disease, they can help pinpoint the problem. Then, they can create a tailored treatment plan for you.
They often start by using imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. This is to check how much your spinal discs have been affected and assess the severity of the condition.
Non-Invasive Treatments
Once they have a clear picture of your situation, they may recommend non-invasive treatments first.
These can include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen your back and improve flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain
- Lifestyle changes such as posture improvements or weight management
These strategies combined can help promote pain relief for lower back pain.
Surgical Options
For more advanced or severe cases, an orthopedic doctor might suggest surgical options. Surgery is generally considered when other treatments have not been effective.
These can include spinal fusion, which stabilizes the spine. It can also be a disc replacement, which aims to restore flexibility and reduce pain.
The Importance of a Personalized Treatment Plan
Because everyone’s condition is different, having a personalized treatment plan is key. By working closely with an orthopedic doctor, you can find the best approach to manage your symptoms.
Orthopedic Specialists in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
Lower back pain from degenerative disc disease can drastically affect your life. However, you do not have to face it alone. Understanding how this condition impacts your spine and knowing when to seek medical care are the first steps.
If you are struggling with persistent lower back pain, it is time to take action. Trust the expert team at Watauga Orthopaedics. Rest assured that we will provide compassionate care and comprehensive solutions for your spinal health. We are here to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. Call us at (423) 282-9011 or request a consultation today.
The best doctors for degenerative disc disease near you look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16912-degenerative-disk-disease
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20369906
