Which Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease Is Right for You?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition that affects many people as they age. The discs in your spine serve as shock absorbers between your vertebrae, and when they break down, it can lead to persistent back or neck pain.

At Spinal Diagnostics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating DDD with a variety of approaches tailored to each patient. But how do you know which treatment is best for you?

Understanding your condition

DDD doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Some people have mild symptoms, while others experience chronic, debilitating pain. That’s why the first step in finding the right treatment is getting a proper diagnosis and understanding how the condition is affecting your spine.

During your consultation, we evaluate your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may use imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment planning.

Conservative treatment options

In many cases, DDD can be managed with nonsurgical options, especially in the early stages. These may include:

Anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy and guided exercises
Chiropractic care or spinal manipulation
Heat and ice therapy
Postural correction and ergonomic adjustments

These treatments focus on reducing inflammation, improving strength and flexibility, and minimizing pressure on the affected discs.

Minimally invasive procedures

If conservative methods don’t bring relief, we may recommend a minimally invasive intervention, such as:

Epidural steroid injections: Reduce inflammation and pain around irritated nerves.
Radiofrequency neuroablation: Uses heat to disable pain-causing nerves near the affected area.
Spinal cord stimulation: Neuromodulation techniques that block pain signals from reaching the brain.

These procedures can provide long-lasting pain relief without the need for major surgery.

When surgery is necessary

While most patients don’t require surgery for DDD, it may be the best option in cases where disc damage is severe and other treatments have failed. Surgical options may include spinal fusion or disc replacement, depending on the location and severity of the damage.

Our team works closely with each patient to explain all options and ensure they feel confident about the path forward.

If you’re dealing with symptoms of degenerative disc disease and want to explore treatment options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

The Ultimate Guide To Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

The Ultimate Guide To Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery Living with chronic neck pain or spinal issues can be both physically and emotionally draining. When conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, or rest no longer provide relief, spine surgery...

Things to Avoid With Degenerative Disc Disease

Things to Avoid With Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition that affects the spine as we age. It occurs when the intervertebral discs — the cushions between your vertebrae — begin to break down, causing pain, stiffness, and...

The Dangers of Tech Neck

The Dangers of Tech Neck Whether you’re checking social media, answering emails, or watching videos, odds are good you spend several hours a day looking down at a device. Unfortunately, this frequent forward-head posture can strain the muscles in your neck and upper...

When Back Surgery Is Your Best Option

When Back Surgery Is Your Best Option Most people who develop back pain want to avoid surgery — and that’s a great instinct. At Spinal Diagnostics, we always prioritize conservative and minimally invasive treatments first. That said, back surgery remains a necessary...

Everything You Need to Know About mild® for Spinal Stenosis

Everything You Need to Know About mild® for Spinal Stenosis Chronic lower back and leg pain can make daily life incredibly difficult — especially when it’s caused by lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). If conservative therapies haven’t worked and you’re not ready for...

4 Common Migraine Triggers

4 Common Migraine Triggers If you experience migraines, you know how quickly they can disrupt your day. While migraines often seem to strike without warning, identifying your personal triggers can help you prevent or manage future attacks. At Spinal Diagnostics, we...

When Incontinence Disrupts Your Life: Here’s What to Do About It

When Incontinence Disrupts Your Life: Here’s What to Do About It Urinary incontinence affects millions of Americans and can be a frustrating and isolating condition. Whether it’s occasional leaks or a more constant issue, incontinence can interfere with your work,...

How Weather Changes Are Related to Migraines

How Weather Changes Are Related to Migraines Many people who suffer from migraines notice a pattern: their headaches worsen when the weather shifts. While scientists haven’t pinpointed all the mechanisms, there’s growing evidence that weather changes can trigger or...

The Connection Between Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy

The Connection Between Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy About 50% of people with diabetes will eventually develop peripheral neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord and most commonly impacts the feet and legs first. At Spinal...

What Many People Don’t Understand About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

What Many People Don’t Understand About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Living with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can be an incredibly frustrating and isolating experience. Often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, CRPS is a chronic pain condition that typically...