Disc Degeneration Review Articles

Degenerative disc disease is an age-related condition that happens when one or more of the discs between the vertebrae of the vertebral column deteriorates or breaks down, resulting in pain. There may be weakness, numbness, and pain that radiates down the leg. Despite its name, degenerative disc disease isn't a disease, but a natural occurrence that comes with aging. The rubbery discs between the vertebrae normally leave flexing and bending of the rear, like shock absorbers. In time, they become worn, and that they not offer the maximum amount protection as before. Treatment may include physiotherapy, physical therapy, or both, special exercises, medications, losing weight, and surgery. Medical options include injecting the joints next to the damaged disc with steroids and an area anesthetic. These are called facet joint injections. They can provide effective pain relief. Facet rhizotomy is a radiofrequency current that deadens the nerves around the facet joint, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Patients who respond well to facet joint injections may benefit from these. Pain relief may last for quite a year. Intradiscal electro thermal annuloplasty (IDET) involves inserting a catheter into the disc and heating it. This appears to scale back pain, possibly by causing collagen to contract in order that it repairs damage within the disc.