There is no “cure” for degenerative spine disease, which can produce a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, especially if the spinal cord or a nerve root becomes compressed. Spinal nerve compression can have a number of underlying causes. Oftentimes, it is a result of an age-related degenerative spine condition, such as a herniated disc, spinal narrowing, inflamed ligament or bone spur. Rather than attempting to “cure” the condition itself, the goal of degenerative spine treatment is to address the resulting symptoms by reducing the pressure on an irritated nerve.

Treatment options for a degenerative spine

Degenerative spine symptoms often respond well to nonsurgical treatment — so well, in fact, that some people no longer feel the need to consider surgery after pursing conservative options. To achieve the best possible results, it’s important to work with a physician who can recommend a customized plan, monitor your progress and recommend adjustments if necessary. Depending on the precise location of your pressured nerve and the type of symptoms it produces, your treatment may involve:

• Modifying your routine — to avoid movements and activities that worsen your symptoms
• Exercising regularly — to increase your core muscle strength, which can shift some of the painful pressure away from your compressed spinal nerve
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers — or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed
• Wearing a supportive cervical collar — for a short period of time (if there is nerve compression in your neck)

If your symptoms do not respond sufficiently to these first-line degeneration spine treatments, your physician may suggest that you try a spinal injection, prescription pain reliever or muscle relaxant. If you’re still experiencing disruptive symptoms at approximately the three-month mark, your physician may introduce the prospect of spine surgery, such as a spinal decompression procedure, which you might choose to explore further if your symptoms warrant it.

Surgery to address spinal nerve compression

If you’d like to learn more about spinal decompression surgery, contact USA Spine Care. Our minimally invasive approach has helped us earn a patient satisfaction score of 98.^ We can provide a free MRI review* to help you determine if you are a candidate for our minimally invasive outpatient procedures.

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