Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in Boston, MA

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is a weakening of one or more vertebral discs, which normally act as a cushion between the vertebrae. This condition can develop as a natural part of the aging process, but it may also result from injury to the back.

If you think you may have degenerative disc disease, don’t wait to see a specialist. For patients in the Boston area, spine specialist Frank Pedlow, MD can help. Dr. Pedlow is a member of the North American Spine Society and has more than 30 years of experience treating degenerative disc disease. Give our office a call at (617) 227-9300 or request an appointment through our secure online form to get started with treatment.

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?

Disc Wall Tears

Degenerative disc disease typically begins when small tears appear in the disc wall, called the annulus. These tears can cause pain.

Disc Wall Heals

When the tears heal, creating scar tissue that is not as strong as the original disc wall. If the back is repeatedly injured, the process of tearing and scarring may continue, weakening the disc wall.

Disc Wall Weakens

Over time, the nucleus (or center) of the disc becomes damaged and loses some of its water content. This center is called the pulposus, and its water content is needed to keep the disc functioning as a shock absorber for the spine.

Nucleus Collapses

Unable to act as a cushion, the nucleus collapses. The vertebrae above and below this damaged disc slide closer together. This improper alignment causes the facet joints – the areas where the vertebral bones touch – to twist into an unnatural position.

Bone Spurs Form

In time, this awkward positioning of the vertebrae may create bone spurs. If these spurs grow into the spinal canal, they may pinch the spinal cord and nerves (a condition called spinal stenosis). The site of the injury may be painful.

Symptoms

Some people experience pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs. Strong pain tends to come and go. Bending, twisting, and sitting may make the pain worse. Lying down relieves pressure on the spine.

Schedule a Degenerative Disc Disease Consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms of degenerative disc disease, contact spine specialist Frank X. Pedlow, MD in Boston, MA today to discuss your treatment options. Dr. Pedlow was named a Boston Top Doc in 2022 and has over 30 years of experience treating patients with degenerative disc disease. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call our office at (617) 227-9300 or use our secure form.