Degenerative disc disease isn’t usually isolated to one or two vertebral levels. Degenerative disc disease is the gradual deterioration and thinning of the shock-absorbing spinal discs, and often, the deterioration can be seen throughout the spine. This condition can occur in the cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back) or lumbar (lower back) level of the spine and may cause a range of symptoms and intensity levels. Unless a degenerative disc places pressure upon an adjacent nerve, this condition remains asymptomatic.

When nerve tissue is compressed or pinched, a number of symptoms may be felt by the patient. The most widespread and easily recognized symptom is pain. But muscle weakness, numbness, tingling and sciatica may also be attributed to degenerative discs. Obviously, as the name suggests, multilevel degenerative disc disease occurs at multiple sites along the spine and is often interrelated. Damage to one level can create a domino effect and place undue stress on other levels, leading to further disease. To learn about the conservative and surgical treatments available to relieve your symptoms, read on.

Conservative treatments for multilevel degenerative disc disease

Typically, doctors prescribe conservative treatments to manage the symptoms of multilevel degenerative disc disease with great success.

These treatments can include:

• Improved posture
• Weight management
• Physical therapy
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Hot and cold therapy
• Pain medication (either over-the-counter or prescription)

In some cases, patients may not find relief through several weeks or months of conservative treatment, and surgery is prescribed. If this is the case for you, contact USA Spine Care to learn about our safer and effective alternatives to traditional open spine surgery.^

Minimally invasive multilevel degenerative disc disease surgery

USA Spine Care offers muscle-sparing procedures with shorter recovery times and a lower risk of complication compared to traditional open spine surgery.^ Our highly skilled team has performed more than 100,000 patient procedures since 2005, setting us apart as the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery. Reach out to us today for a free MRI review* and to find out if you are a potential candidate for our multilevel degenerative disc disease surgery. We can help guide you on your journey to wellness.

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