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• Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease in the Neck

Cartilage in the discs that cushion the vertebrae in the neck can begin to wear down over time. This deterioration can be a sign of degenerative disc disease, a condition that can occur in the neck or anywhere along the spine.

When deterioration occurs in the neck, or cervical vertebrae, it’s called cervical degenerative disc disease. Sufferers usually feel soreness or stiffness in the neck, or have trouble turning their head without pain. Neck pain might also radiate down the shoulders and arms, or the hands may tingle or feel numb. This discomfort comes from inflamed, irritated or pinched nerves. These nerves are put under increasing pressure when the space between the vertebrae slowly shrinks as the disc deteriorates.

If you experience some or all of these symptoms, consider a visit your doctor. Come prepared to answer questions about the duration and severity of the pain. Before your visit, also try to find out whether a relative has been diagnosed with the condition, as it can be hereditary. An X-ray or MRI can reveal the level of disc degeneration, if any. Remember, Laser Spine Institute (LSI) offers a free evaluation of your MRI or CT scan as well.

Non-surgical treatments for cervical degenerative disc disease include:

• Cold or hot packs
• Pain medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Cervical traction
• Neck brace

Strengthening or stretching exercises, if the neck pain allows, may also be recommended. Physical therapy might be prescribed to strengthen your neck muscles and help you manage the pain. Never begin a new exercise regimen without consulting your physician.

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If the pain continues to affect your quality of life after weeks or months of non-surgical treatments, it might be time to consider one of LSI’s minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, such as percutaneous endoscopic discectomy. Contact us today if you’d like to rediscover a life without the pain of cervical degenerative disc disease.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.