If you commonly experience low back pain that comes and goes, you may be suffering from lumbar degenerative disc disease. Most adults over 40 experience some level of disc degeneration along the spine or neck. This degenerative process is a normal part of aging since the spinal discs are subject to wear and tear throughout a person’s life. When the cushioning between the vertebrae starts to wear away, the bones begin to rub against each other and cause noticeable symptoms. Lumbar degenerative disc disease refers to the wear and tear of the spinal discs of the lower back. Fortunately, treatment for degenerative disc disease can often alleviate symptoms and get patients back to enjoying their everyday activities. At OrthoGeorgia, our board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeons have years of experience identifying and treating all manner of back and neck problems, including lumbar degenerative disc disease. Learn more below and contact the OrthoGeorgia location nearest you to get access to comprehensive spine care.
What are the Symptoms of Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease affecting the lumbar spine often causes constant, low-grade back pain that does not severely interfere with daily activities. However, the pain can be distracting, especially when it intensifies. When pain flares up, some patients may notice reduced mobility. The area may also be tender and sore. If the disc space collapses enough to pinch a nerve root in the spine, patients may experience additional symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or sharp pain in the hips or legs. Pain may also worsen with sitting, bending, or lifting.
Diagnosis of Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease at OrthoGeorgia
If you think you may be suffering from degenerative disc disease, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with a spine specialist at OrthoGeorgia. When you visit us, your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, such as where your pain occurs and what makes it better or worse. Your doctor will also talk to you about your orthopaedic medical history and other symptoms that may be present.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may also help to reach a diagnosis. These tests allow your doctor to assess the state and alignment of your lumbar discs. Other components of a physical exam for degenerative disc disease may include your doctor asking you to walk or bend to see which movements trigger pain, along with conducting tests focused on your strength and range of motion. Once a diagnosis is reached, our team in Central GA will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
Treatment of Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease in Central GA
Those experiencing back pain caused by disc degeneration normally have both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. The goals of treatment are to reduce pain, stabilize the spine, and improve mobility using various techniques.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Initial treatment for disc degeneration of the lumbar spine is often focused on pain relief. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to reduce inflammation and pain. If OTC medications do not help, you may be prescribed muscle relaxants or stronger painkillers by your doctor. The application of heat and ice to the lower back can also be helpful – this process improves circulation and can reduce muscle spasms and tension in the back. Another nonsurgical treatment path for degenerative disc disease is physical therapy, which can be extremely effective in reducing pain and supporting healthy spine mobility. At OrthoGeorgia, we proudly offer our patients access to state-of-the-art physical therapy services and care provided by our licensed physical therapists and physical therapy assistants. Exercises focused on stretching and strengthening the back muscles can help patients find relief from their lower back pain.
Surgical Treatment for Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
In most cases, lumbar degenerative disc disease can be successfully addressed without surgical intervention. If a patient has tried nonsurgical treatment methods for months without seeing results, surgery may be considered. If surgery is the best next step for you, your doctor will walk you through your options and ensure that any questions you have are answered. Surgical options for degenerative disc disease of the lower spine can include:
Discectomy – the diseased part of the disc is removed to relieve nerve pressure
Lumbar spinal fusion – two vertebrae are grafted together to eliminate motion at the spinal segment
Laminectomy – a small portion of bone is removed from the lower spine
Other Spine and Back Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, our orthopaedic spine specialists work with patients of all ages to identify and address injuries and conditions of the back and neck. We want to help you and your loved ones live the most active and comfortable lives free from back pain and discomfort. Conditions that our spine surgeons specialize in include:
“I really like Dr. Brooks. I'll be honest I'm stubborn and I don't listen to a lot of people and he was right to the point with me about what I needed to do and what was happening... and it feels better now than it did 10, 15, 20 years ago it really does."
Eric Hayes, Mercer Tennis Coach & OrthoGeorgia Patient
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