What is Degenerative Disc Disease – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment January 24th, 2011 – No Comments – Category: Disc Herniation

Segments of the backbone are called the vertebrae. Between these segments, there are structures known as intervertebral discs. They help in the slight movements of the vertebrae and are joined together by connective tissues known as ligaments. Degenerative disc disease of the spine affects the intervertebral disc and can be the cause of chronic pain in the back for many.

What are the Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)?Degeneration of disc is part of the normal ageing process. While in the case of most of the people, DDD pose no threat, for the rest, it can even affect the quality of life.

Injury can lead to swelling of the discs. in some individuals, the nerve endings penetrate deep into the outer layers of the discs, making these structures more prone to become the source of pain.

Certain jelly-like substances known as nucleus pulposus aid in the distribution of the hydraulic pressure all along the discs when the spine in under immense load. Sometimes are nerves get inflamed by these lubricating materials causing the pain.

Symptoms of DDD are:

• Chronic back pain
• Hip pain
• Pain in the thighs
• Pain in the buttocks while walking
• Weakness of the knees
• Sporadic tingling
• Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms and hands
• Increase in pain while lifting, bending, sitting and twisting

Treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease:Mild to moderate cases of this condition are treated successfully without surgery. NSAIDs, physical therapy, tractions and spinal injections and chiropractic manipulative therapy are the non-invasive treatments available for this condition.

Surgery is recommended when the above mentioned treatments fail to provide any relief within two to three months. some of the available surgical procedures are:

Conclusion:Adult stem cell therapy, mesenchymal stem cell therapy and glucosamine injections are some of the new treatments under clinical trial for DDD.

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