What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the spinal discs gradually lose flexibility, cushioning, and structural integrity over time. Spinal discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae and help support movement and stability throughout the spine.
As discs age and break down, patients may experience chronic back or neck pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and nerve-related symptoms such as numbness or tingling. Degenerative disc disease commonly affects the cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back).
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained spine specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients maintain an active lifestyle.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Stiffness and reduced spinal mobility
- Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, or twisting
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that improves with position changes
- Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods
Causes & Risk Factors
Degenerative disc disease commonly develops from natural aging and wear affecting the spinal discs.
- Aging-related disc degeneration
- Repetitive stress on the spine
- Heavy lifting or physically demanding work
- Previous spinal injuries
- Poor posture or body mechanics
- Smoking and reduced disc health
- Obesity or excess spinal stress
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the spine, nerves, and surrounding structures.
- Physical examination and neurological assessment
- Evaluation of strength, sensation, and reflexes
- Review of symptoms and activity limitations
- X-rays to evaluate spinal alignment and disc space changes
- MRI imaging to assess disc degeneration and nerve compression
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the severity of disc degeneration and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many patients improve with conservative treatment designed to reduce inflammation and support spinal stability. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Core strengthening programs
- Epidural steroid injections
- Heat and ice therapy
- Pain management strategies
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended for severe pain, spinal instability, or nerve compression that does not improve with conservative treatment. Surgical options may include spinal decompression, spinal fusion, or other minimally invasive procedures designed to improve spinal function and relieve nerve pressure.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of degeneration and the treatment approach used.
- Many patients improve with ongoing conservative care and therapy
- Physical therapy is important for improving spinal strength and flexibility
- Surgical recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure performed
- Long-term spine health often focuses on posture, conditioning, and activity modification
Our team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore comfort, mobility, and long-term spinal function.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our spine specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for spinal degeneration and nerve-related conditions.
- Experienced spine and orthopedic specialists
- Advanced imaging and neurological evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Minimally invasive spine treatment techniques
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for degenerative disc disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease commonly develops from aging-related disc wear, repetitive stress, previous injuries, and spinal degeneration over time.
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
Symptoms may include chronic back or neck pain, stiffness, numbness, weakness, and pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting.
Can degenerative disc disease be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many patients improve with physical therapy, medications, injections, and other conservative treatments.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended for severe pain, spinal instability, or nerve compression that does not improve with conservative treatment.
When should I see a specialist?
If back or neck pain, numbness, weakness, or mobility limitations interfere with daily activities or worsen over time, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.