Solutions for Degenerative Disc Disease Pain

Degenerative disc disease is a condition that affects the spinal column in which the discs between the vertebrae dry out. This causes pain as the spinal column supports the body during daily routines. Factors that contribute to degenerative disc disease are aging, injury to any part of the spinal column, osteoporosis and arthritis. Several solutions are available to relieve the pain from degenerative disc disease.

Medications

• Prescription medications are widely used in controlling pain caused by degenerative disc disease. Physicians commonly prescribe pain medications, muscle relaxers, steroids and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain symptoms. However, it is important to note that pain medications and muscle relaxers could be habit forming.

  Steroids aid in reducing swelling and are given either in pill form or injections directly into the discs. The injections usually relieve pain for up to several months.

  Physicians occasionally prescribe medications such as Advil, Tylenol and aspirin for mild pain relief.

Treatments

• Physical therapy helps the patient return to full motion using exercises, ice applications to the back, and other modalities such as ultrasound and electronic stimluation. Physical therapy only works as long as the patient is willing to participate.

  In addition to physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation of the back aids in reducing pain by realigning the spine. Once the spine is back in a normal position, the discs can receive more fluids from the body, thereby reducing pain. Many people find more relief from a chiropractor than medications.

  An alternative to other methods is acupuncture. A small needle placed by a physician into specific pressure points on the body reduces disc pain as well.

  Spinal surgery is considered as the last resort to other alternatives in many instances. Surgery includes relieving pressure of the spinal cord or specific nerves, preventing additional nerve damage and stabilizing a certain section of the vertebra.

Considerations

• Other possible pain prevention solutions involve self-care. This encompasses adjusting posture, sleeping habits, stress factors and sitting position. Exercises and ergonomic aides help to correct posture. Relaxation exercises help to reduce stress, which in turn relaxes the muscles to prevent pain. Lifting and bending incorrectly will cause pain and/or damage. Proper lifting and bending techniques along with a back brace aides in pain relief as well.

  While aging is the most common reason for degenerative disc disease, there is no known cure for the disease. It is progressive but controllable. Exercise and back pain management goes a long way toward a better quality of life with less pain.