Texas Spine Associates Texas Spine Associates

Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in Dallas, TX

Degenerative disc disease also referred to as DDD or spinal disc degeneration is not really a disease. It refers to changes in the spinal discs as a result of natural aging, chronic wear, and tear, and/or injury that occurs over a long period. They are like wrinkles in your skin. Degenerative disc disease is commonly found in the lumbar (low back) and the cervical (neck) regions of the spine, but may also occur in the thoracic (mid-back) as well. Severe degenerative disc disease can limit your range of motion, as well as cause pain from minor motion that occurs in your spine as the disc no longer performs its job properly. As your intervertebral discs lose water, flexibility, and height, your vertebrae lose their cushion and begin to rub against each other. It is, therefore, very important to identify the symptoms of degenerative disc disease and catch this condition early.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of degenerative disc disease, don’t wait to see a specialist. For patients in the Dallas area, the team at Texas Spine Associates is here to help. Our spine surgeons are all members of the North American Spine Society and have extensive experience accurately diagnosing and effectively degenerative disc disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Arlington, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Granbury, Irving, Southlake, or Weatherford.

What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?

Cervical Disc Degeneration (Neck)

  • Neck stiffness causing mild pain and discomfort.
  • Neck pain that may radiate through to the shoulders and down the arms.
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulder, and arm.

Lumbar Disc Degeneration (Back)

  • Mild pain in the lower back that may radiate through the hips and into the legs.
  • Moderate to intense pain when carrying heavy objects or while seated.
  • Pain that increases in intensity while bending, lifting, twisting, sneezing, or even coughing.

Diagnosis

Degenerative Disc disease is commonly diagnosed using a three-step process which includes taking a detailed history, physical exam, and x-rays. If we suspect that degenerative disc disease is what is causing your pain and other symptoms, our physicians may order additional diagnostic testing to confirm his diagnosis. If symptoms are intense and continue for several weeks, you likely need treatment. Dr. Neil Shah, Dr. Vishal Patel, and Dr. Christopher Happ are highly experienced in diagnosing degenerative disc disease and other spinal disorders as well as providing both surgical and non-surgical care.

Meet Our Spine Surgeons

Neil D. Shah, MD

Neil Shah, M.D.

Vishal Patel, MD

Vishal Patel, M.D.

Christopher Happ, DO

Christopher Happ, D.O.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease

Dr. Shah, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Happ take a conservative approach by recommending non-surgical treatments whenever possible. We recommend surgery as a last resort when symptoms do not improve with conservative measures. Treatment options for Degenerative Disc Disease may include one or a combination of the following:

Schedule a Degenerative Disc Disease Consultation

To learn more about treatments for degenerative disc disease, request a consultation at any of our convenient locations throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Or you can call us at (972) 987-0969 to schedule your appointment. Our board-certified spine specialists will work to find the best option for your specific case. We have spine clinics in Arlington, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Granbury, Irving, Southlake, and Weatherford.