Disc Pain

What is disc pain?

Disc pain occurs when there’s a problem with the discs that sit between your vertebrae. These discs have a soft, shock-absorbing core and a tough outer layer. They protect your spine and help keep it flexible.

When you think of disc pain, you might think of a herniated or bulged disc but even a disc that is in place can be painful due to tears or disruption inside the disc.

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease is the age-related deterioration of your intervertebral discs. These discs start out having quite a high water content, which helps keep them springy and plump.

As you age, the discs start to dry out, and the rate at which your body renews the cells in your discs slows down. The result is that your discs begin to harden and flatten.

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?

Some people don’t have any particularly troublesome symptoms when they have degenerative disc disease.

Your discs may become painful if the changes, tears or disruption are associated with inflammation. 

If the discs are affecting nearby nerves, you might also experience radiating leg or arm pain. 

How is a painful disc treated?

When your provider at Integrated Spine and Pain Services diagnoses degenerative disc disease, they’re likely to begin treatment using conservative approaches. These might include:

• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatories

If you aren’t finding much improvement, the Integrated Spine and Pain Services team can also provide expertly administered minimally invasive treatments such as transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

To find out more about treatments for degenerative disc disease, call Integrated Spine and Pain Services today or book an appointment online.