When it comes to degenerative disc disease treatment, two common options may come to mind: prescription medications and surgery. While widely used, however, these two treatment options are certainly not the only options available. Many people who have degenerative disc disease are able to design effective treatment plans with their doctors by using a combination of lesser-known options. This can delay — or even avoid — the need for surgery or prescription drugs.

Option one: over-the-counter medications

Even though medication is usually included as part of a degenerative disc disease treatment plan, prescription drugs aren’t always necessary. Over-the-counter medications can often effectively reduce the discomfort caused by degenerative disc disease without having to resort to stronger and potentially habit-forming pharmaceuticals. Commonly recommended over-the-counter medications include:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen

Option two: chiropractic care

Having a properly aligned spine is a very important part of spine health and chiropractic medicine is largely designed to achieve this. A chiropractor can help ensure that a patient’s body is not experiencing unnecessary discomfort because of poor alignment. Always visit a licensed and reputable chiropractor who has experience treating your specific condition.

Option three: therapeutic massage

Primarily considered a stress relief therapy, a massage isn’t always thought of as a medical treatment — but it can be recommended to relieve the symptoms of conditions like degenerative disc disease. An experienced professional can use various manipulation techniques to promote circulation and to help relax the muscles in the neck and back.

Of course, even the most well-designed nonsurgical treatment plans may not always produce the desired results and some patients may require stronger medications or eventually have to explore surgery. One additional degenerative disc disease treatment that patients might consider is minimally invasive spine surgery at USA Spine Care. Our outpatient procedures are a safer and effective alternative to traditional open neck or back surgery, offering our patients many benefits including no lengthy recovery.

To find out if you’re a potential candidate for one of USA Spine Care’s minimally invasive procedures, contact us today and ask for your no-cost MRI review.*