Disc

An intervertebral disc is a soft, thick pad that rests in between adjacent vertebrae in the spinal column to prevent the bones from grinding together and to provide the spine with much-needed flexibility. Each disc has a gel-like inner material – the nucleus pulposus – which is protected by a tough fibrous wall known as the annulus fibrosus.  In a healthy spine, these discs act like shock absorbers and allow the flexibility needed for daily activity.  A degenerative disc, however, can also cause significant back or neck pain if the deteriorated disc causes nerve compression in the spinal column.

Anatomy

Disc degeneration is a natural byproduct of the normal aging process but can also be accelerated by an injury.  As we grow older, movement places stress on the disc and leads to understandable wear and tear. The thick disc walls develop tears and fissures, and the nucleus disc material can actually extrude out into the spinal column.  Interestingly, this condition is extremely common and many people experience degenerative disc conditions without ever knowing. However, should the disc or the extruded disc material come into contact with the spinal cord or a nerve root, a number of painful symptoms can present – depending on the location of the afflicted nerve.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms most commonly associated with nerve compression include:

• Localized pain
• Pain that radiates along the nerve, including sciatic pain
• Unexpected muscle weakness, soreness, or fatigue
• Headaches
• A feeling of numbness or tingling in the extremities
• And more

Treatments

If you are suffering from the effects of a degenerative disc, your doctor will first need to complete a medical examination and may schedule an imagery scan to confirm the source and severity of your discomfort. In most cases, degenerative disc disease or injury can be managed conservatively over the course of several weeks with a combination of medication, exercise, heat therapy, and rest.

In the event that your pain persists through weeks or months of conservative treatment and you are considering your other options, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn about the numerous benefits of our minimally invasive, outpatient endoscopic procedures.