Degenerative Disc

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) may affect any part of your spine, although the most common sites are the lower back and neck spine; thoracic DDD, however is very uncommon.

X-ray findings of DDD are a narrower disc space and some osteophyte, which is a bony outgrowth of spur, formation. As people age, these changes tend to start showing up on the x-rays of most men and women. However, the first imaging modality to detect changes of DDD is the MRI, even before plain x-rays. Loss of water content in the invertebral disc is an early finding, which is then followed by the narrowing of the disc space. People in their 20's and 30's may already be experiencing changes to their discs but with no clinical symptoms. As the aging processes continues, the occurrence of DDD increases.

In the early phases of Degenerative Disc Disease, degeneration, fibrosis, unprompted or post-traumatic tears, and collapse of the disc may lead to breakdown of mechanical function. This is connected with low back pain and possible leg pain if there is nerve root impingement (radiculopathy).

As Degenerative Disc Disease continues, there is ligamentous buckling and osteophyte development which can cause tightening of the space for the spinal cord and nerve roots. Lumbar spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the neural canal and foramina to a stage that can result in compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots or cauda equina. Acquired lumbar stenosis is caused principally by degenerative disease of the spine. However, a congenitally narrow or small spinal canal is also a common finding; when present, it requires smaller disc herniation, less disc degeneration, or osteophytes to cause these symptoms.

How do I get started?

Contact our office at (417) 869-2000 to schedule an initial consultation with the Doctor to determine your individual situation. Medical Evaluation and Diagnostic testing procedures should be performed prior to beginning any treatment in order to determine the most effective process. After carefully studying your case history and exam findings, the Doctor will sit down and explain his recommended plan of action for you. After answering any questions you may have about the recommended plan, you may begin your care.

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