Back pain is one of the primary reasons people seek medical help, and for many it can become an ongoing battle. If your back discomfort has become persistent or worsening over time, degenerative disc disease (DDD), where spinal discs wear away over time, could be to blame. Aging may contribute to degeneration, but its symptoms still cause considerable discomfort; early recognition and diagnosis is critical so appropriate pain management treatments can begin.
The pain management experts at Premier Pain & Spine in Chicago, IL specialize in diagnosing and treating chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. By understanding its symptoms and treatments available to you, you can take control of your discomfort and start increasing the quality of your life!
About Degenerative Disc Disease
Although technically not an illness, degenerative disc disease is more accurately a condition caused by wear and tear on spinal discs over time. These cushion-like discs act as shock-absorbers between vertebrae; over time as these discs deteriorate they lose water content and elasticity leading to pain, inflammation, reduced range of motion between vertebrae as well as decreased flexibility between vertebrae.
While aging may be the primary contributor, other factors like genetics, smoking, obesity and repetitive back stress could quicken its onset.
Signs & Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
If you are suffering from chronic back pain, it’s essential to recognize the telltale signs of degenerative disc disease. Although symptoms will depend on which area of your spine has been affected by degeneration, common indicators might include:
#1. Persistent Back Pain: Its One of the first and most obvious symptoms of DDD is lower back or neck pain that starts out mild but becomes increasingly worse over time, particularly after prolonged sitting, standing, or physical activity.
#2. Pain Radiating to Arms or Legs: Degenerative disc disease of the lower back can present itself with sciatica-type pain in both legs due to nerve compression; cervical spine (neck area) issues could produce pain, tingling or weakness in either arm or shoulder area.
#3. Movement-Related Pain: Movement such as bending, twisting and lifting may exacerbate DDD pain, while sitting for extended periods at work or while driving can further compound its effect. Walking or shifting positions may provide temporary relief.
#4. Stiffness & Reduced Flexibility: As spinal discs age and become less flexible, their loss can leave the spine stiff, leading to difficulty with bending or twisting movements as well as decreased mobility overall resulting in stiffness as well as difficulty moving.
#5. Numbness & Tingling: As disc degeneration results in nerve compression, you may experience numbness, tingling or weakness that interferes with daily tasks and needs immediate medical intervention. This condition could severely diminish daily functions and quality of life and medical intervention may be required immediately to maintain function.
Avoid Ignoring Back Pain
Neglecting chronic back pain can only aggravate symptoms and lower quality of life. Seek professional assistance immediately if any of the following applies to you:
- Long-term pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Weakness or numbness in arms and legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (an indicator of nerve damage)
Any of the above should prompt immediate action by consulting one of Premier Pain & Spine in Chicago, IL’s pain management specialists. Early intervention could prevent complications and improve long-term results.
Premier Pain & Spine’s advanced pain management treatments aim to ease symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease and restore mobility, such as:
#1. Epidural Steroid Injections: Epidural injections provide powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area for pain and inflammation relief simultaneously.
#2. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat energy to block pain signals from damaged nerves, providing long-term relief from discomfort.
#3. Regenerative Medicine (PRP Therapy): Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy promotes healing and tissue regeneration while at the same time decreasing inflammation and pain levels.
#4. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): People suffering from chronic back pain may find spinal cord stimulation an effective means of relief. SCS works by blocking pain signals before they reach the brain – providing significant pain-relief.
#5. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy programs that specialize in strengthening muscles that support the spine, increasing flexibility and alleviating pain have proven themselves as highly successful solutions.
Chronic Back Pain Treatment in Chicago, IL
Are You Living with Chronic Back Pain in Chicago, IL? Don’t delay; find relief now with Premier Pain & Spine today. Our customized pain management solutions aim to restore mobility without suffering!
Our experienced team specializes in treating degenerative disc disease and other spinal-related conditions with noninvasive techniques for long-term pain relief. So don’t wait; book an initial consultation now to begin living free from discomfort!
Schaumburg: 1365 Wiley Rd. #153, Schaumburg, IL. Phone: 847-519-4701
Downers Grove: 3800 Highland Ave. # 101, Downers Grove, IL. Phone: 847-519-4701
Berwyn: 6920 Ogden Ave. Suite C, Berwyn, IL. Phone: 708-637-3534