Many types of degenerative disc disease treatment are conservative (nonsurgical) in nature. These treatments are designed to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with the condition, although they do not stop the degenerative process or reverse damage that has already occurred.

Additionally, there are several surgical options that can address the underlying cause of the discomfort, along with any other co-existing conditions (e.g., pinched nerves) that are caused by spinal degeneration. That said, surgical treatment is typically reserved for instances in which a patient’s symptoms do not respond to nonsurgical therapy.

Medications for degenerative disc disease

Medications often play a significant role in degenerative disc disease treatment. Common options include:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
• Prescription pain relievers
• Prescription muscle relaxants

Sometimes, analgesic medications can be paired with long-acting steroid medications and injected directly into the spine. These injections can be given individually or in a series, spread out over several months.

Other conservative and alternative forms of degenerative disc disease treatment

Often used at the same time as degenerative disc disease medications, some other types of conservative treatment include physical therapy, activity modifications, exercise, hot/cold therapy and lifestyle changes. Some people also choose to explore complementary and alternative therapies, such as yoga and therapeutic massage, as they strive to find a treatment plan that suits their needs.

Degenerative disc disease surgery

Traditional or minimally invasive surgery can also be used in the treatment of degenerative disc disease, with each patient receiving an individualized treatment recommendation based on the location and extent of his or her diagnosis. Usually, traditional procedures involve large incisions and long hospital stays, while minimally invasive procedures require smaller incisions and cause less disruption to the muscles in the neck and back.

If you’ve spent several months exploring various types of degenerative disc disease treatment and have not found the relief you need, you can contact USA Spine Care to learn more about our approach to minimally invasive spine surgery. Our team can help you determine if you’re a candidate for our outpatient surgery.

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