The human spine is a complex structure, and two common conditions that can affect it are herniated discs and degenerative disc disease. While these conditions share some similarities, they have unique differences that set them apart.
At The Spine Institute of Southeast Texas, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Thomas Jones II and the rest of the team specialize in diagnosing and treating these and other spine-related conditions. Understanding the intricacies of these conditions is the first step toward effective management and treatment.
Before diving into the differences between a herniated disc and degenerative disc disease, it's helpful to understand the basic structure of the spine. It’s made up of a series of bones, called vertebrae, which are separated by discs.
These discs act as shock absorbers, preventing the bones from rubbing against each other and adding flexibility to the spine.
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc bulges or leaks out through a tear in the disc’s outer layer. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness, especially if the herniated disc presses against a nerve.
Dr. Jones and the team at The Spine Institute of Southeast Texas are experienced in diagnosing and treating herniated discs. Treatment often involves pain management strategies, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery.
Degenerative disc disease occurs when age-related wear-and-tear causes the discs in the spine to deteriorate or break down. This can result in reduced elasticity and disc shrinkage, leading to pain, instability, and sometimes herniation.
This condition isn't actually a disease, but degenerative disc disease is a term used to describe the changes in your discs as you age. Dr. Jones can provide a range of treatments for this condition, from nonsurgical options like medication and physical therapy to surgical procedures for more severe cases.
While both a herniated disc and degenerative disc disease relate to the spinal discs, the main difference lies in the origin of the problem. A herniated disc occurs due to a rupture or displacement of disc material, while degenerative disc disease arises from the gradual wearing down of the disc over time.
Furthermore, while a herniated disc often results from a sudden injury or strain, degenerative disc disease is linked to the natural aging process.
If you're experiencing persistent back or neck pain, numbness, or weakness, it's crucial to seek professional help. Dr. Jones is well-versed in diagnosing and treating conditions of the spine. With a tailored treatment plan, he can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Spine health is vital to overall health. Don't let pain hold you back. Take the first step toward a life with less pain and schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones by calling or sending a request online today. The Spine Institute of Southeast Texas offers in-person and virtual appointments.
