The disc consists of two parts; the gelatinous part in the middle called the nucleus and the protective sheath around it. Generally, with age, the discs begin to lose their water content and height. And as a result of this, some deterioration occurs in the ligaments that hold the disc and the vertebrae together. This can cause the disc to tear easily.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is the name given to the calcification, damage, wear and tear that occurs in the discs located between the vertebrae. Degenerative disc disease can lead to a herniated disc (disc herniation), which is also common in our society, and to the loss of function in the structures that keep the spine stable during movement, called instability.
What are the causes of degenerative disc disease?
There are many factors that pave the way for degenerative disc disease. The most important of these is advancing age. Apart from this;
- Overweight and obesity,
- Genetic characteristics,
- Diabetes (diabetes mellitus),
- Arteriosclerosis,
- Smoking,
- Jobs that require intense physical movement,
- Postural disorders,
- A sedentary lifestyle can cause disc deterioration.
What are the symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
The most characteristic symptom of Degenerative Disc Disease is pain radiating to the waist and hip area. The increase in pain with movement may also indicate the presence of this disease. Especially during heavy lifting, bending and turning to the side also increases the severity of pain. Daily activities and movements of those with degenerative disc disease are restricted due to pain. The serious negative impact on the quality of life can also disrupt the psychology of patients.
Diagnostic process
The diagnosis of the disease is made with various tests after clinical examination and listening to the patient’s history. Radiological imaging methods such as MR (Magnetic Resonance) and CT (Computed Tomography) are used. When these two tests do not yield sufficient results, discography is performed. In this application, a dyed substance is injected into the disc. In this way, the inside of the disc is viewed in detail and the disease is diagnosed.
Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment
The main purpose of degenerative disc disease treatment is to relieve pain and increase the patient’s quality of life. Initially, painkillers may be sufficient. Physical therapy methods can also be applied for a certain period of time. Muscle strengthening is an important part of the treatment. Patients should not neglect physical activity. With special exercise programs to be applied for this purpose under the supervision of a specialist, the waist and abdominal muscles should be strengthened and if the patient is overweight, they should be made to lose weight. In patients who do not see sufficient improvement with these methods, the following methods can be applied:
- Electrothermal treatment is performed by placing an electrode inside the disc.
- Intra-disc ozone therapy
- Intradiscal PRP or SVF injections.
In very advanced patients, if the disc height has decreased to zero, surgical intervention may be required.