Disc Degenerative Disease

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that refers to the natural changes that occur in the spinal discs over time. Spinal discs are soft, gel-like cushions that separate the vertebrae in the spine and act as shock absorbers. As people age, these discs can undergo wear and tear, leading to degenerative changes.

Let Dr. Brad Richardson and our integrative medical team determine if your pain is a symptom of DDD or if your daily activities (driving, emptying the dishwasher, light cleaning) are contributing to your condition.

Key points about degenerative disc disease:

Normal Aging Process: DDD is often considered a normal part of the aging process. As people get older, the discs lose water content and become less flexible, making them more prone to damage.

Symptoms: While many people with DDD may not experience any symptoms, some may develop pain and discomfort. Common symptoms include back pain that may radiate to the buttocks and thighs. The pain may worsen with movements like bending, lifting, or twisting.

Diagnosis: Diagnosing DDD involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans. These tests help to identify changes in the spinal discs and rule out other potential causes of symptoms.

Treatment Options: Many times our patients have been told SURGERY is the only option to treat their DDD. However, we have PROVEN non-invasive treatments for DDD such as our laser or decompression therapy or a combination of both, chiropractic adjustments, and more.