What Is Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease at Multiple Levels?

Lumbar degenerative disc disease at multiple levels occurs when discs in the lower back, which act as a cushion between vertebrae, begin to deteriorate. As the discs degenerate, they lose their ability to act as shock absorbers and the space between the vertebrae narrows.

Causes

• Lumbar disc deterioration at multiple levels can be a natural part of the aging process for some people. For others, an injury or repetitive wear and tear on the back can act as a trigger.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of lumbar degenerative disc disease at multiple levels vary. Some people may experience only mild back pain; others may suffer severe pain of the back that radiates to the hips and legs.

Diagnosis

• Many physicians use magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, to confirm a diagnosis of lumbar degenerative disc disorder at multiple levels. The results of an MRI, combined with an assessment of a patient's symptoms, may result in a diagnosis.

Treatment

• Treatment for lumbar degenerative disc disease at multiple levels depends largely on a patient's symptoms. Conservative treatment can include medications, physical therapy and/or injections to control inflammation or pain.

Surgery

• Some patients with lumbar degenerative disc disease at multiple levels may require surgery. If the degeneration of the discs has caused the spine to become unstable, or if nerve impingement is involved, lumbar spinal fusion surgery may be performed.