A degenerative spine is a condition that causes the discs, joints and ligaments of the spine to undergo degenerative changes that can lead to the compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. Genetics can typically play a small role in developing this condition. However, there are various factors described in the following article that can cause your degenerative spine symptoms to worsen.

Degenerative spine causes

If a member of your family has suffered from a degenerative spine, there is a possibility that your body may be predisposed to developing excessive wear on your spinal discs, joints and ligaments, thereby causing a variety of debilitating neck or back symptoms. However, there is no guarantee that you will develop this condition due to its genetic disposition.

Typically, the most common cause of degenerative spine symptoms is age-related degeneration, as years of wear on the spine can take a toll on the discs and make them more susceptible to damage. As you get older, the discs in the spine can begin to thin and become brittle and the cartilage that lines the spine deteriorates, forcing a disc to bulge outside of its normal boundaries or the bones to run against each other.

Degenerative spine symptoms

Depending on the site of the spinal cord and nerve root compression, degenerative spine symptoms can range from localized and radiating pain, tingling, numbness and weakness in the neck, back, shoulders, arms, hands, buttocks, legs and feet. Other possibilities may include tenderness, diminished flexibility and limited range of motion based off of your specific condition. As you get older, these symptoms may begin to worsen and can become debilitating if you do not seek treatment after receiving a diagnosis.

Conservative degenerative spine treatments

If you are suffering from chronic degenerative spine symptoms, then your doctor may recommend a conservative treatment regimen consisting of the following:

• Range of motion exercises
• Pain medication
• Anti-inflammatories
• Muscle relaxants
• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic care
• Heat massage
• Ultrasound therapy
• Acupuncture
• Core-strengthening exercises

However, if you have yet to find lasting relief from your degenerative spine symptoms after several weeks or months of conservative therapy, then your doctor may recommend surgical intervention, such as the minimally invasive procedures offered at USA Spine Care.

Finding lasting relief from degenerative spine symptoms

USA Spine Care is the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery and has helped more than 75,000 patients find relief from chronic neck or back pain. By using a small incision that is muscle sparing, our highly skilled surgeons are able to offer patients a shorter recovery time as well as a safer and effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery.^ Contact our dedicated team today so we can help you on your journey to wellness.

Through a free MRI review* of your spine, we can evaluate your condition to see if you are a candidate for one of our minimally invasive spine surgery procedures.

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