Degenerative Disc Disease & Herniated Discs
What is Degenerative Disc Disease and a Herniated Disc?
As we age, the discs between our vertebrae can lose hydration and elasticity, leading to degenerative disc disease. In some cases, the disc may bulge or rupture, causing a herniated disc. This can irritate or compress nearby spinal nerves, resulting in pain and neurological symptoms. These changes most often occur in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine.
What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease and Herniated Discs?
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity. Common signs include back or neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort that worsens with movement. If a nerve is compressed, patients may experience radiating arm or leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. In the lower back, sitting, bending, or lifting can worsen symptoms. In the neck, patients may notice pain radiating down the shoulder or arm.
What are the Treatment Options for Spinal Tumors?
Many patients improve without surgery through activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted injections. When symptoms persist or nerve compression causes functional problems, minimally invasive surgical options—such as discectomy, laminectomy, or fusion—may be recommended to decompress the affected nerve and stabilize the spine. The goal is to relieve pain and restore mobility with the least invasive approach possible. Most minimally invasive surgery patients go home the same day of treatment and are walking immediately after surgery.
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