DRX9000 Spinal Decompression

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a very common condition in which the discs between the vertebrae of the spine wear down or degenerate, hence the term degenerative. Such deterioration may be the result of the aging process or injury. The majority of the population has at least some disc degeneration when they get into their older years, and some folks manage to have little or no pain associated with the wearing down process, while others may have moderate or severe pain; sometimes the pain can be quite debilitating and interfere with daily living. When the discs wear down, the cushioning between the vertebrae lessens and the shock absorption quality inherent in the spine’s makeup diminishes. Degenerative disc disease can cause stiffening of the back and other conditions may result as well. Degenerative disc disease can be located anywhere along the spinal column, but it usually presents itself in the lower back, or lumbar region.

The symptoms of DDD can vary, but if there are any symptoms, pain is almost always present. The pain may be localized; that is, it may occur in only the area where the degeneration is taking place, but there also may be pain that radiates down an arm or leg or occurs in the buttocks. Usually, pain associated with DDD will worsen if you reach, bend, or twist the back.

Treatments for DDD also vary quite a bit; typically, less invasive methods are begun first. Such treatments might include medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), NSAIDS such as ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen (Naprosyn or Aleve). Your doctor may also suggest either heat or ice and prescribe physical therapy, as well. Chiropractic care and homeopathic remedies also provide relief for some people.

If these rather non-invasive management techniques do not provide the necessary relief, surgery may be recommended. Traditionally, surgery for DDD includes removal of tissue that causes pain by pressing on a nerve and fusing the spine to stabilize and control movement. Recently, there have been some advances in DDD treatment; one surgical option that is showing great promise is the implanting of an artificial disc after removing the natural disc. For discs specifically in the lower back, IntraDiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET) is another option intended to be an alternative to fusion surgery, but the criteria for IDET are quite specific, and it is not for everyone.