Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition that affects the spinal discs. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine, absorbing shock and providing flexibility. Over time, the discs can wear down, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Here at Greater Atlanta Pain & Spine in Duluth, GA, we offer a comprehensive approach to degenerative disc disease treatment, helping you regain control of your life.
Symptoms To Watchout
- Back pain, especially in the lower back
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Stiffness in the back, particularly in the morning
- Pain radiating into the buttocks, legs, or feet (sciatica)
- Muscle weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease
- Age: Discs naturally wear down over time.
- Genetics: Some people are more predisposed to DDD than others.
- Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive lifting or bending can put stress on the spine.
- Weight: Excess weight can increase pressure on the discs.
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the discs, accelerating degeneration.
- Injury: Trauma to the spine can damage discs.
Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment Options in Duluth, GA
At Greater Atlanta Pain & Spine, we offer a variety of treatment options for degenerative disc disease, tailored to your individual needs. These may include:
Non-surgical interventions:
- Physical therapy: Exercises designed to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and promote proper posture can significantly reduce pain and improve function.
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and using proper lifting techniques can all help reduce stress on the spine.
Minimally invasive procedures:
- Epidural steroid injections: Corticosteroid medication injected into the epidural space around the spinal cord can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Facet joint injections: Injections targeting facet joints with local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication can provide targeted pain relief.
- Nerve blocks: Local anesthetic injections can temporarily block pain signals from specific nerves, helping diagnose the source of pain or offering relief.
We will discuss the most suitable treatment options for you during your consultation. Our goal is to help you find long-lasting relief and get you back to the activities you enjoy.
Choose Greater Atlanta Pain and Spine for
Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in Duluth, GA
- Board-certified and experienced pain management physicians specializing in degenerative disc disease treatment.
- A variety of treatment options to address your specific needs and goals.
- Minimally invasive procedures for faster recovery times.
- A focus on improving your quality of life and helping you return to the activities you enjoy.
Take Control of Your Back Pain
FAQs
Avoid activities that aggravate your pain, such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your condition and the treatment approach.
Age, genetics, occupation, weight, smoking, and injury can all increase your risk of DDD.
Yes we accept most health insurances