Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease develops with age, often causing chronic back or neck pain. At North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates in Ridgewood, New Jersey, board-certified neurosurgeons Amanda Carpenter, MD, and Duncan Carpenter, MD, use advanced treatments to combat the effects of age on your spine. To benefit from their experience treating degenerative disc disease, call North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates or complete the online booking form today.

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease isn’t really a disease — it’s a common condition that happens when the spongy discs between the vertebrae (bones) in your spine start to wear. 

These discs are like cushions or shock absorbers. As you age, discs lose the water content that keeps them spongy and become less flexible, making them more likely to cause problems. They can also flatten or tear, which may lead to pain, stiffness, or other symptoms in your back or neck.

Injury, repetitive movements, or heavy lifting can speed up the process. Genetics plays a role, too, so people with close family members who have degenerative disc disease are more likely to develop disc problems than others.

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?

People with degenerative disc disease may feel pain in their neck or lower back, depending on which part of the spine is affected. Some people have pain that comes and goes, while others feel it more constantly.

The pain can spread to the arms or legs, and you may experience tingling, numbness, or weakness due to nerve injury (radiculopathy). 

How is degenerative disc disease diagnosed?

To diagnose degenerative disc disease, your North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates provider discusses your symptoms and does a physical exam. 

Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans can help them see the condition of your discs and check for other issues like herniated discs or pinched nerves.

What treatments are available for degenerative disc disease?

North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates usually starts degenerative disc disease treatment with nonsurgical approaches like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and pain management. Steroid injections can also help reduce persistent inflammation and pain. 

In some cases, a spinal fusion or disc replacement can relieve pressure on the nerves and improve stability. Surgery is usually a last resort, and many patients feel better with conservative care. But if your pain keeps you from doing daily activities or if you have nerve damage, surgery might be the best approach.

The neurosurgeons at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates specialize in treating the spine and nervous system. They work with you to find the least invasive, most effective treatment plan for your condition, whether that means therapy, injections, or surgery.

Call North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates to arrange a degenerative disc disease evaluation, or use the online form to request a consultation.