Can degenerative disc disease cause paralysis?
Can degenerative disc disease cause paralysis?
In rare cases, severe disc degeneration can compress the spinal cord, leading to neurological impairment.
No
Health Conditions
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative Disc Disease is a condition where the intervertebral discs in the spine wear down over time, leading to pain, reduced flexibility, and potential nerve compression. While it is a natural part of aging, DDD can cause significant discomfort and impact daily life. The condition commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine. Symptoms vary but may include chronic back or neck pain, stiffness, radiating pain to the arms or legs, and numbness or tingling due to nerve involvement.
Why Should You Choose Aster Hospitals?
At Aster Hospitals, our team of experienced spine specialists and spine surgeons offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment solutions for Degenerative Disc Disease. We take a personalized, multidisciplinary approach to manage the condition, combining advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive procedures, and rehabilitation programs to restore mobility and relieve pain. We utilize MRI, CT scans, and X-rays to accurately assess disc degeneration and create individualized treatment plans.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises to improve spinal stability and flexibility
- Pain Management: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and epidural steroid injections
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management and posture correction
- Chiropractic Care: Manual therapy techniques to improve spinal alignment
- Hot/Cold Therapy: Reduces inflammation and improves blood flow to the affected area
Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Spinal Injections: Corticosteroid injections
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to target and disable pain-causing nerves
- Percutaneous Disc Decompression: Minimally invasive technique to relieve pressure on nerves
Surgical Interventions By Spine Surgeon
- Discectomy: Removes the damaged portion of a disc to relieve nerve compression
- Spinal Fusion: Stabilizes the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae together
- Artificial Disc Replacement: Preserves motion by replacing a damaged disc with an artificial implant
- Laminectomy: Removes part of the vertebra to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves
FAQ's
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
Is degenerative disc disease the same as arthritis?
No. While both conditions involve aging-related changes, DDD primarily affects intervertebral discs, whereas arthritis affects the joints in the spine. However, they can coexist.
How do I know if I need surgery for degenerative disc disease?
Surgery is recommended if you have severe pain, neurological symptoms (like weakness or numbness), or loss of function that does not improve with conservative treatment. Visiting a spine surgeon is essential for treatment of DDD.
Can degenerative disc disease be reversed?
No, but with proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, and progression can be slowed.
Can degenerative disc disease cause paralysis?
In rare cases, severe disc degeneration can compress the spinal cord, leading to neurological impairment.
How do I know if I need surgery for degenerative disc disease?
How do I know if I need surgery for degenerative disc disease?
Surgery is recommended if you have severe pain, neurological symptoms (like weakness or numbness), or loss of function that does not improve with conservative treatment. Visiting a spine surgeon is essential for treatment of DDD.
No
Health Conditions
Can degenerative disc disease be reversed?
Can degenerative disc disease be reversed?
No, but with proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, and progression can be slowed.
No
Health Conditions
Is degenerative disc disease the same as arthritis?
Is degenerative disc disease the same as arthritis?
No. While both conditions involve aging-related changes, DDD primarily affects intervertebral discs, whereas arthritis affects the joints in the spine. However, they can coexist.
No
Health Conditions
