Treating Degenerative Disc Disease With Non Surgical Treatments
You may be surprised to learn that degenerative disc disease affects a significant portion of the population, with studies showing that approximately 40% of people aged 40 have signs of disc degeneration. While surgical options exist, non-surgical treatments offer promising outcomes for managing this degenerative disc disease from becoming too debilitating.
From physical therapy to lifestyle adjustments, a range of approaches can help alleviate pain and improve function without invasive procedures. Surgery can be your last resort.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)?
Disc degeneration, degenerative disc disease, or a degenerated disc all describe the same condition, so in your research for evidence-based treatments, you might’ve come across all three of these terms used interchangeably.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition specifically characterized by the gradual deterioration of the intervertebral discs, which are the cushions between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). As we age, these discs naturally lose water content and elasticity, making them less effective at absorbing shock. However, degenerative disc disease is not merely a result of aging; factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and repetitive stress can accelerate disc degeneration.
It’s important to differentiate between normal aging and pathological degeneration. While it’s common for people in their 50s to experience some degree of disc degeneration, only about 10% show severe degeneration. This number rises to 60% by the time they reach their 70s, highlighting the significance of early intervention.
Degenerative disc disease doesn’t occur in isolation. It’s often connected to other spinal conditions such as disc tears, bulges, herniations, and sciatica. Understanding the stages of disc degeneration is crucial in diagnosing and treating the condition effectively.
Understanding Spinal Disc Damage and Disc Desiccation
Spinal disc damage is a multifaceted issue resulting from several contributing factors, including aging, trauma, and poor posture. As we age, our intervertebral discs naturally undergo changes that can lead to degeneration. One of the most significant processes in disc degeneration is disc desiccation. This condition occurs when the discs lose their moisture content, becoming dry and brittle over time. As the discs lose water, they also lose their ability to effectively cushion the vertebrae, leading to a reduction in disc height and compromised spinal stability.
When the disc desiccates, the nucleus pulposus loses its ability to absorb shocks effectively and distribute mechanical stress evenly across the spine. This can lead to increased stress on the annulus fibrosus, making it more susceptible to tears and fissures. Consequently, the disc’s structural integrity is compromised, which can result in pain, reduced mobility, and other symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease.
Inflammation is another critical factor in the progression of disc degeneration. As discs degenerate, they can trigger inflammatory responses in the surrounding tissues. This inflammation can exacerbate pain and further weaken the disc structure, creating a vicious cycle of discomfort and deterioration. Inflammatory processes can also contribute to the breakdown of the disc’s structural components, leading to more severe damage and increased pain.
Repeated trauma and micro-injuries, often caused by poor lifting techniques, improper posture, or repetitive motions, play a significant role in spinal disc damage. For example, lifting heavy objects with improper form can place excessive strain on the discs, leading to accelerated wear and tear. Similarly, repetitive motions or maintaining poor posture for extended periods can contribute to the gradual breakdown of the disc material. Over time, these small injuries accumulate and can significantly impact the disc’s health.
Desiccated or dried-up discs are most commonly observed in the lumbar spine. These lumbar segments are particularly vulnerable because they bear a significant portion of the body’s weight and are subjected to considerable mechanical stress during daily activities. The frequent and intense pressure placed on these discs makes them more prone to degeneration compared to other spinal regions.
Symptoms and Areas Affected by Degenerative Disc
Degenerative Disc Disease can affect various segments of the spine, with the most commonly affected areas being the lower back (L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1) and the cervical spine (C4-C5, C5-C6, C6-C7). Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and disability, and they can vary significantly depending on the location and severity of the degeneration.
Lower Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease (L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1)
The L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1 vertebrae form essential segments of the lumbar spine, each playing a pivotal role in supporting the upper body and facilitating movement.
The L3-L4 segment lies between the third (L3) and fourth (L4) lumbar vertebrae, located in the lower back.. The L3-L4 segment allows for critical movements such as bending and twisting. Disc degeneration or herniation at this level can lead to pain radiating into the buttocks, thighs, or legs. Conditions like foraminal stenosis or facet joint arthritis are also prevalent here, affecting nerve roots and causing symptoms such as sciatica.
Moving down, the L4-L5 segment is situated between the fourth (L4) and fifth (L5) lumbar vertebrae. It is one of the most frequently affected areas in the lumbar spine since the segment supports the lower back and allows for a wide range of motions, including flexion, extension, and lateral bending. Herniated discs at this level are common and can result in lower back pain, leg pain, and numbness or weakness in the lower extremities.
At the base of the lumbar spine is the L5-S1 segment, positioned between the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and the first sacral vertebra (S1). This area connects the lumbar spine to the sacrum, which forms the base of the spine and is part of the pelvis. The L5-S1 segment bears a substantial portion of the body’s weight and is crucial for maintaining balance and stability. It allows for essential movements such as bending forward, backward, and rotating. Disc degeneration or herniation at the L5-S1 level is most common and can cause significant lower back pain, sciatica, and mobility issues. Additionally, conditions like spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips over another, are prevalent here, leading to instability and pain.
The intervertebral discs between these vertebrae function as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. Damage to these discs impairs their ability to cushion and stabilize the spine, resulting in pain and reduced mobility. Research by Faur et al. (2019) found higher lumbar multifidus muscle atrophy in lower spinal levels, particularly L5 and S1, with a greater incidence of disc degeneration in men.
Cervical Spine Degenerative Disc Disease (C4-C5, C5-C6, C6-C7)
The C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7 vertebrae are key segments of the cervical spine, located in the neck region. Each vertebra in this area plays a crucial role in supporting the head, facilitating movement, and maintaining overall spinal alignment.
The C4-C5 segment, positioned between the fourth (C4) and fifth (C5) cervical vertebra, is integral to neck flexibility and stability, allowing for a range of movements such as rotation and lateral bending. It also supports the weight of the head and helps absorb the stress applied to the cervical spine. Conditions like foraminal stenosis, where the neural passageways become narrowed, can also occur, compressing the nerves and causing symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or weakness in the upper extremities.
Moving to the C5-C6 segment, located between the fifth (C5) and sixth (C6) cervical vertebrae, this region is often a focal point for cervical spine issues due to its involvement in significant neck movement and weight-bearing. The C5-C6 segment facilitates crucial motions like flexion and extension of the neck. It is also a common site for disc degeneration and herniation, which can impact the nearby nerves, leading to symptoms similar to those experienced at the C4-C5 level. Patients may experience pain or weakness in the shoulders, arms, or hands, and may also have trouble with fine motor skills due to nerve compression.
The C6-C7 segment, situated between the sixth (C6) and seventh (C7) cervical vertebrae, is the lowest segment of the cervical spine before it transitions into the thoracic spine. This segment is vital for neck extension and rotation, and it supports a substantial amount of the head’s weight. Issues at this level may affect the lower parts of the arms and hands. It is also a common site for conditions such as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, where spinal cord compression progresses in to more severe symptoms like difficulty with coordination, balance, and gait.
Overall, these cervical vertebrae are essential for maintaining neck stability and enabling a wide range of head and neck movements. Degenerative changes or injuries at any of these levels can significantly impact quality of life, causing pain, reduced mobility, and functional limitations.
One of the challenges in diagnosing DDD is that its symptoms can mimic other conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. This overlap can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. For instance, over 90% of herniated discs occur at the L4/L5 and L5/S1 levels, often leading to radiculopathy, which is characterized by muscle weakness and altered sensations in the leg and foot.
Multilevel disc degeneration, where more than one disc is affected, can further complicate the condition, making it challenging to identify the primary source of pain. The impact of degenerative disc disease on daily activities and quality of life cannot be overstated, as it often limits mobility and can lead to chronic pain.
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease in Younger Patients
While DDD is commonly associated with aging, it can also affect younger individuals under 35 years of age. Research indicates that degeneration in lumbar discs can commence as early as 11-16 years, impacting anyone regardless of their physical fitness level. Several factors contribute to early-onset DDD, including genetics, trauma, poor posture, and repetitive stress injuries. Lifestyle factors also play a significant role.
Trauma, such as accidents or sports injuries, can also accelerate the degeneration of spinal discs. These traumatic events often lead to acute damage, which can initiate the degenerative process prematurely.
Poor posture, often due to prolonged sitting or incorrect body mechanics, places undue stress on the spinal discs, contributing to their degeneration. Additionally, repetitive stress injuries from activities that involve frequent bending, lifting, or twisting can wear down the discs faster than normal.
A sedentary lifestyle can weaken the muscles that support the spine, making the discs more susceptible to damage. Smoking impairs blood flow to the spinal discs, reducing their ability to heal and maintain structural integrity. Poor diet can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients that support disc health, further accelerating degeneration.
In younger patients, early-onset DDD increases the likelihood of developing severe spinal conditions. Approximately 20% of teenagers show signs of mild disc degeneration, which can have long-term implications if not addressed early. These individuals are at a higher risk for conditions such as:
- Slipped Discs: This includes bulging, protruded, prolapsed, herniated, or extruded discs. These conditions occur when the disc material pushes out of its normal boundary, potentially pressing on nerves and causing pain.
- Sciatica: This condition is characterized by pain radiating along the path of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc pressing on the nerve roots.
- Facet Hypertrophy: This involves the enlargement of the facet joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the spine.
- Hypertrophy of Ligamentum Flavum: The thickening of this ligament, which runs along the back of the spinal canal, can contribute to spinal stenosis and nerve compression.
- Radiculitis: Inflammation of a nerve root, often resulting from disc degeneration or herniation, can cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.
- Spondylosis: This refers to the degeneration of the spinal discs and the formation of bone spurs, leading to reduced mobility and discomfort.
- Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: This condition involves the forward slippage of one vertebra over another due to degenerative changes in the spine. It commonly occurs at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 segments but can also affect the cervical spine.
Accelerated wear and tear on spinal soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and discs, is a significant factor in the development of degenerative spondylolisthesis. This condition typically results in the forward displacement of vertebrae, most commonly at the C5-C6, L4-L5, and L5-S1 motion segments. The excessive stress and strain from ongoing degenerative processes lead to instability in the spine, which can further exacerbate symptoms and functional limitations.
Slowing Down Degenerative Disc Disease
Posture and Movement
Prolonged sitting, especially in poor posture, can exacerbate disc degeneration. To counteract this, it is essential to practice good ergonomic habits. This means sitting with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor. Plus, incorporating movement breaks throughout the day can alleviate the strain and promote better spinal alignment.
Sleep and Hydration
Proper sleep is fundamental for disc health. Ensure that you sleep on a supportive mattress (or pillow) and maintain a position that keeps your spine aligned. Staying hydrated is equally important, as it helps maintain the water content of the spinal discs, supporting their cushioning and flexibility. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your discs well-hydrated and functioning optimally.
Weight Management
Excess weight can put additional strain on the spine, accelerating degenerative changes in the discs. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise can significantly reduce the load on your spine. This, in turn, helps prevent excessive wear and tear on the spinal discs and supports overall spinal health.
Exercise
Engaging in regular exercise is a key component of managing DDD. Focus on low-impact activities that minimize stress on the discs while promoting spinal stability and flexibility. Activities such as swimming and walking are excellent choices, as they provide cardiovascular benefits without placing undue strain on the spine.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can contribute to muscle tension and exacerbate spinal issues. Yoga and meditation, can help reduce muscle tension and improve overall well-being. These practices promote relaxation and flexibility, which can aid in preventing further degeneration and alleviating pain associated with DDD.
A study conducted by Kessler et al. (2021) underscores the effectiveness of comprehensive approaches in managing DDD. The research highlighted the success of Dynamic Lumbar Stabilization Programs (DLSP), which achieved a 92-96% success rate. This program not only improved spinal posture but also significantly reduced pain, allowing many patients to return to their daily activities and work pain-free. Our practice at Osso Bone Care are built on these holistic principles in order t help patients with their spinal issues.
Non-invasive Treatment Options for DDD
Chiropractic care offers spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on the affected disc and promote healing.
At Osso Bone Care, our chiropractors will advise undergoing a Digital X-ray screening for the Full Spine + Pelvic screening to rule out and assess the structure, shape, and alignment of the spinal vertebrae. This is crucial for detecting any abnormalities in the spine during the treatment process, accurately identifying the root cause of your disc degeneration or bulging disc.
Surprisingly, many who come to us have never undergone an X-ray examination, causing previous practitioners to essentially guess. Our advanced digital X-ray technology reveals issues that were previously undetectable. With digital X-ray evidence and analysis, the diagnosis provided is thorough and accurate. With our principle, “To see is to know, to not see is to guess,” we ensure precise diagnoses and significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Flexion-Distraction Technique
Utilizing Osso’s very own Osso Flexion Distraction Adjustment Technique ® , we employ a specialized method for treating disc degeneration through gentle spinal stretching to alleviate pressure on the nerve and spinal disc. Repeatedly flexing the spine opens the gap of the disc to increase space between vertebrae, decrease disc pressure, increase opening for the nerves to relieve pinched nerves. This treatment is very crucial for disc degeneration as it helps to increase mobility.
Unlike surgical interventions, the Flexion-Distraction Technique is a non-invasive procedure, making it a favorable option for many seeking conservative care. This technique holds promise in providing relief for individuals suffering from disc degeneration.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Osso 3D Spinal decompression therapy, a chiropractic treatment method utilizing an advanced computer-controlled traction system that involves stretching the spine gently to thicken and heal the spinal disc. As the decompression table pulls and relaxes repeatedly, it creates a “pumping effect” that rushes nutrients, blood, and oxygen into the disc. This influx of essential elements forces unwanted wastes out of the disc, promoting healing and strengthening the disc in the process.As the disc heals and thickens, it becomes more resilient and better able to withstand the pressures and stresses placed on the spine during daily activities.
By promoting strengthening, healing and thickening of the disc, spinal decompression can provide relief. Chiropractors utilize specialized equipment to perform this technique, customizing the treatment to address individual conditions and symptoms effectively, as it is the best alternative before resorting to a surgery.
Research indicates that spinal decompression therapy can be beneficial in decreasing pain and enhancing function in individuals with disc degeneration. This non-invasive approach aligns with chiropractic principles of addressing underlying issues contributing to disc degeneration, offering a holistic method to manage and treat the condition.
Drop Table Technique
The drop table technique in chiropractic treatment involves a specialized table segment that’s strategically raised and then swiftly dropped during adjustments. This method allows for a gentle and controlled adjustment of the spine to target disc degeneration and other spinal issues effectively.
Chiropractors use the drop table technique to pinpoint specific adjustment areas of the spine with accuracy, aiding in the correction of spinal alignment. The controlled dropping motion requires less force, making it a comfortable option for patients experiencing disc degeneration. Patients often find the drop table technique to be both comfortable and effective in reducing pain and improving spinal alignment.
One of The Best Chiropractic Centers in Malaysia
Chronic pain due to disc degeneration remains a significant challenge, but advancements in medical research and treatment options provide hope for better management and relief. By combining conservative therapies, advanced interventions, and personalized care, individuals with disc degeneration can achieve improved pain control and enhance their quality of life. Ongoing research and innovations continue to refine treatment approaches, offering new possibilities for those affected by chronic spinal pain.
Advancing as pioneers in the field since 2007, we are the first chiropractic center in Malaysia to offer integrated digital x-ray services, streamlining your chiropractic care under one roof. Many patients have found success and results with Osso Bone Care due to our unique, signature treatments and by showing evidence of the spinal condition with our Digital X-Ray screening, which accurately diagnoses the root cause of the spinal conditions.
Why Would You Want to Go to a Different Place if OSSO Bone Care Chiropractic® has All That You Need?