You’re out for a walk and bend down to tie your shoes when suddenly…it hits you. You feel a sharp pain in your lower back – nearly debilitating. Standing up becomes a 5-step process. If this scenario sounds eerily familiar to you….you might have degenerative disc disease. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a medical condition that affects the spinal discs between the vertebrae. Over time, the spinal discs lose fluid and flexibility, making them less effective in cushioning the spine. This leads to pain and discomfort, with common symptoms of DDD including back pain, neck pain, and muscle weakness.
While the exact cause of DDD is not yet known, it is believed to be a combination of genetic factors, aging, and lifestyle choices. It is prevalent in the United States, affecting over 3 million people each year. If you’re looking for Degenerative Disc Disease treatments in Delaware, Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center offers non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments for DDD. If you’re looking to seek options that go beyond traditional medicine – which relies heavily on pain medications and surgery then we urge you to continue reading.
Traditional Treatments for DDD
Many individuals with DDD receive traditional treatments such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pain medications, and surgery. While these treatments may provide short-term relief, they also have downsides.
NSAIDs and pain medications can lead to dependence, drowsiness, and other side effects. Also consider the probability of internal bleeding and ulcers with NSAIDs. These symptoms tend to creep up on you – and often times it’s too late by the time you feel the pain.
Surgery, while sometimes necessary, is an invasive option that carries risks. Recovery time can be lengthy, and the cost can be high.
For those who have tried traditional treatments and are still experiencing pain, regenerative medicine can offer a non-invasive and minimally-invasive option that can provide long-lasting relief without the risks associated with surgery.
Some Helpful Tips to Consider When Managing DDD on your Own
If you have been diagnosed with DDD, there are steps you can take to manage the condition on your own. Stretching is an effective way to avoid postural deficiencies that can aggravate the condition. Many times, tight muscles cause impingements or change our movement patterns. These faulty movement patterns cause accelerated disc degeneration as our body compensates by utilizing the wrong muscles and stressing the joints.
Losing weight (if overweight) can also reduce the pressure on the spine. High-impact exercises should be avoided, and low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, and swimming should be utilized. Dr. Stuart McGill’s Big 3, a series of exercises focused on the lower back, can also be helpful.
Many of these tips can be employed for general health and to reduce the rate at which your discs degenerate. However, it’s important to consider that a large majority of the population above age 30 experiences disc degeneration. Not everyone will experience symptoms, either.
Non-Invasive and Minimally-Invasive Treatments for DDD
Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center (CAIC) offers non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments for DDD. These treatments include physical therapy, massage, and regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is a superior option for disc degeneration treatment. It involves the use of the body’s own cells to regenerate and repair damaged tissues. Regenerative medicine can provide long-lasting relief without the risks associated with surgery.
Regenerative medicine involves using the body’s natural healing process for treating DDD. This type of therapy uses a patient’s own cells to promote tissue repair and regeneration. These cells are typically obtained from healthy donors and then processed to concentrate the healing cells. These cells are then injected into the affected area, where they can help to stimulate the growth of new tissue and reduce inflammation. This process can help to promote healing and reduce pain and discomfort.
The treatment is non-invasive and minimally-invasive, meaning that it does not require surgery or general anesthesia. This means that patients can often return to their normal activities quickly and without significant downtime. Additionally, this option can be used in conjunction with other treatments to accelerate recovery; such as physical therapy and massage, making it a comprehensive approach to treating DDD.
In addition to physical therapy, massage, and regenerative medicine, we also offer chiropractic care and acupuncture. Chiropractic care can be especially beneficial for those with DDD as it can help to realign the spine and alleviate pressure on the discs. Acupuncture can also be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with DDD.
Seek Comprehensive Accident and Injury Center for Relief from Disc Degeneration
Our team of medical professionals understands that when you’re in pain – you need help fast. We offer flexible scheduling options and can accommodate same-day appointments as they are available.
At CAIC, we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to Degenerative Disc Disease Treatments in Delaware. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and schedule a free consultation.
