Prevent Spinal Discs from Worsening Before Surgery | Yashar Neurosurgery - Blog

Degenerative disc disease is a common condition where the discs between the vertebrae in your spine become thinner and lose their cushioning ability. Early stages often cause no symptoms, but as the condition progresses, patients may experience increasing pain and discomfort. For patients in the Los Angeles area facing this diagnosis, expert care from a spine specialist can help manage symptoms and potentially delay the need for surgery.

If you are experiencing back pain or other related symptoms, consulting with a specialist such as the best spinal surgeon in Los Angeles can provide personalized treatment options and guidance on preventing further disc degeneration.

Overview of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease occurs when the spinal discs lose moisture and elasticity, reducing their ability to cushion the vertebrae. This leads to increased pressure on the spine and can cause pain and other neurological symptoms.

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?

• Aging:The primary cause is the natural loss of moisture in the discs as we age, leading to thinner, less flexible discs.
• Injury: Trauma to the spine can accelerate disc degeneration.
• Strenuous Physical Activity: Repetitive or heavy physical labor may cause earlier onset of symptoms.

By age 60, most people show some degree of disc degeneration, though symptoms vary widely.

Symptoms

Patients with degenerative disc disease may experience:

• Persistent or intermittent back pain
• Numbness in one or more extremities
• Pins and needles sensations without loss of circulation
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Muscle spasms

These neurological symptoms may indicate spinal cord or nerve root pressure and warrant prompt evaluation.

Diagnosis

If you experience consistent back pain or neurological symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation from a spine specialist. In Los Angeles, patients benefit from access to advanced diagnostic imaging and expert clinical assessment to determine the extent of disc degeneration and nerve involvement.

Treatment Options

Many cases of degenerative disc disease can be managed conservatively without immediate surgery. Treatment typically includes:

• Medications to control pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce spinal strain

Surgery, such as spinal disc replacement, is generally reserved for severe cases where conservative measures fail.

Preventing Further Degeneration

While degenerative disc disease cannot always be stopped, its progression can often be slowed with proactive measures:

Improving Posture

• Engage in activities like yoga or dance classes that emphasize proper spinal alignment.
• Maintain good posture during daily activities by:
• Elevating your computer screen to eye level
• Sitting with feet flat on the floor and back straight

Performing Targeted Stretches

Physical therapy can guide you through stretches that relieve spinal pressure and improve circulation, including:

• Hamstring stretches
• Cat stretch
• Back extensions
• Knee-to-chest stretches

Exercising Regularly

• Exercise strengthens muscles supporting the spine, especially in the upper legs, core, and back.
• Medications prescribed by your doctor can help manage pain to enable safe exercise.
• Discuss your exercise routine with your neurologist or spine specialist to avoid overexertion.

General cardiovascular activities like brisk walking are also recommended to maintain overall health and blood flow.

Recovery & Prognosis

With appropriate management, many patients experience symptom relief and improved function. Early intervention and adherence to treatment plans can delay or prevent the need for surgery.

When to See a Specialist

If you live in Los Angeles and experience persistent back pain or neurological symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or muscle spasms, it is crucial to consult a spine expert promptly. The best spinal surgeon in Los Angeles can provide a thorough evaluation and develop a tailored treatment plan to manage your condition effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I prevent my spinal discs from worsening before surgery?

Improving posture, performing targeted stretches, and exercising regularly under medical guidance can slow disc degeneration and alleviate symptoms.

When is surgery necessary for degenerative disc disease?

Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms or if neurological deficits worsen. Procedures like spinal disc replacement may be recommended by your surgeon.

Who is the best specialist to treat degenerative disc disease in Los Angeles?

Patients in the Los Angeles area should seek care from the best degenerative disc disease surgeon in Los Angeles, who has expertise in both surgical and non-surgical management of spinal conditions.

For personalized care and to discuss your symptoms, please contact our Los Angeles office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yashar, a leading spine surgeon dedicated to advanced, patient-centered treatment.