Degenerative Disc Disease

 Spinal discs are gel-filled cushions between the bones, or vertebrae, of the spine. The discs act like shock absorbers. Over time, the discs may break down. This is called degenerative disc disease. It can affect the neck or back. It is one of the most common causes of low back pain. It is the leading cause of disability in people under age 45 in the United States. The pain often remains localized to the lower back or neck. Muscle spasm is often present and adds to the pain.

Disc degeneration is a natural part of aging.  However, it is not painful for most people. It may also occur as a result of repeated minor injuries due to daily activities, sports, or accidents. It may lead to osteoarthritis of the spine. Back pain related to disc disease may come and go, or it may become chronic and last for months or years. The disc may bulge or rupture. It is called a slipped disc or herniated disc. This can put pressure on a nearby spinal nerve and cause neck or back pain that spreads down one arm or leg.

X-rays or an MRI may help to diagnose this condition. For acute pain, treatment includes anti-inflammatory medicines, muscle relaxants, rest, ice, or heat. Strong prescription pain medicines, called opioids, may be needed for short-term treatment if pain suddenly gets worse. Opioid medicines can be addictive so they are not advised for long-term pain management. Other types of medicines are preferred. Surgery is generally not used to treat this condition unless there is a complication.  

Home care

• For neck pain: Use a comfortable pillow that supports the head and keeps the spine in a neutral position. Your head should not be tilted forward or backward.
• For back pain: Avoid sitting for long periods of time. This puts more stress on the lower back than standing or walking. Starting a regular exercise program to strengthen the supporting muscles of the spine will make it easier to live with degenerative disc disease.
• Ice: Ice reduces muscle pain and swelling. It helps most during the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury.

• • Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin towel. (Never place ice directly on your skin.)

  • Place the ice where your back hurts the most.

  • Do not ice for more than 20 minutes at a time.

  • You can use ice several times a day.

• Heat: After the first 48 hours, heat can relax sore muscles and improve blood flow.

• • Try a warm bath or shower or use a heating pad set on low. To prevent a burn, keep a cloth between you and the heating pad.

  • Do not use a heating pad for more than 15 minutes at a time. Never sleep on a heating pad.

  • You can use heat several times a day, or switch between ice and heat.

• Medicines: Over-the-counter pain relievers can include acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medicines, which includes aspirin or ibuprofen. They can help ease discomfort. Some also reduce swelling.

• • Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines you are already taking.

  • Your healthcare provider may prescribe another pain medicine

  • Take medicines only as directed.

  • If you have chronic liver or kidney disease or ever had a stomach ulcer or GI bleeding, talk with your provider before using these medicines. 

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as directed. If X-rays, a CT scan or an MRI were done, you will be notified of any new findings that may affect your care.