Discogenic Pain
Resolving Back Pain That Affects Millions
Over time, the discs between the vertebrae of the spine go through a natural aging process. For many of us this process occurs unnoticed. For others it can be the source of intermittent or constant low back pain. An estimated six million people in the U.S. live with chronic discogenic pain, yet relief is possible with proper medical attention. If you are among those who suffer, advanced, non-surgical techniques may help you resolve your pain today and strengthen your spine for a healthier tomorrow.
Symptoms mimic other conditions
Discogenic back pain can occur when the spongy discs between the vertebrae of the spine become impaired. When we are young, the discs are predominantly water (about 80%), but as we age, they dehydrate and become more susceptible to cracks and fissures called annular tears. These tears can potentially cause an inflammatory reaction that leads to pain.
The most common symptoms of disk degeneration are lower back pain and muscle spasm. Occasionally, pain may also radiate to the buttocks, groin or thighs. Typically, the pain is made worse by bending, sitting or standing in a stationary position, and often relieved by lying down or walking.
These relatively non-specific pain symptoms can be very similar to other conditions. To make a definitive, accurate diagnosis, a medical pain specialist conducts a complete medical history (a family history of back trouble is common) and thorough physical examination. An MRI may be helpful in identifying discs with signs of degeneration, and discography may be used to confirm that the annular tears are the source of pain or to detect tears missed on imaging.
Lasting relief without surgery
Discogenic pain has been treated effectively for years with sophisticated, non-surgical approaches such as epidural corticosteroid injections and intradiscal heat therapy (IDET or DiscTRODE). Today, another promising new option shows remarkable success, providing lasting pain relief by actually healing impaired discs.
Advanced intradiscal restorative therapy works in tandem with the body's inherent ability to heal itself, frequently leading to complete and permanent improvement. Injecting the impaired discs with a solution of dextrose, glucosamine and chondroitin - natural substances already found in the body - may have the potential to stimulate the growth of new cartilage and heal the discs.
A simple procedure performed safely in a sterile, office-based setting, intradiscal restorative therapy may offer a healing alternative without the potential risks of surgery, general anesthesia, hospitalization or long recovery periods. Following treatment, physical therapy, exercise and patient education can help you continue to strengthen your back and prevent discogenic pain from recurring.