With this design we have the stability to stand upright, but also the flexibility to bend and twist. Unfortunately, these discs can cause problems as they wear away.
As the disc ages, it becomes more brittle and less flexible. The disc also becomes more prone to injury and degradation. Exactly what causes pain with lumbar disc degeneration is debatable, but we do know that some patients with worn out discs have typical symptoms of low back pain.
It is important to understand that aging discs is normal. MRI's of patients with no symptoms of back pain often show wearing away of the discs. It should not be considered abnormal to have wearing of the spinal discs. That said, some patients can develop symptoms of back pain, and it is possible that their symptoms come from the spinal disc degeneration. It is very important to have this carefully evaluated by your orthopedic surgeon before embarking on any treatment plan.
Current Treatment: Spine Fusion Surgery
Spine fusion has long been considered the best treatment for degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine once conservative treatment measures have failed. The first treatment for degenerative disc disease is always with non surgical options. These include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and epidural steroid injections. However, if patients try these treatments, and do not find satisfactory relief, then spine fusion surgery may be an option.Spine fusion surgery is done to remove the damaged disc, and stimulate bone growth in that same area. Fusion of bone means that the space once occupied by the flexible disc will be occupied by bone that will not allow motion at that spinal level. Once the bone fuses across the disc space, the vertebrae above and below the damaged disc are locked together. By securing the vertebrae together, the spine does not move at this segment, and the pain relief can be excellent.
