Neck Pain

Degenerative Disc Disease, Radiculopathy

DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE:

One of the most common causes of neck pain nationwide is known as Degenerative Disc Disease. As individuals age or experience a significant injury to their back, the spinal discs weaken and can cause sections of the vertebrae to rub together and press on nerves causing them to become pinched. While Degenerative Disc Disease isn’t actually a disease, it is the medical description for common conditions pain management specialists often treat.

Degenerative disc disease first occurs as small tears appear in the disc wall causing pain. As they heal, they form scar tissue, which is not as strong as the previous material in the disc wall. Over time this tissue can weaken, causing the disc center to eventually collapse. Bone spurs can then form from the awkward positioning of the vertebrae. Nerve roots often become compressed and cause severe pain as well.

Inflammation and abnormal micromotion instability are two symptoms associated with Degenerative Disc Disease. Proteins in the disc space may cause inflammation, leading to low back pain radiating to the hips. Pain might also travel down the back of the legs as well. If the outer rings of the intervertebral disc are damaged or become worn down, it is not as effective in resisting motion in the spine. This condition is known as micromotion instability. Both inflammation and abnormal micromotion instability cause muscle spasms and other issues.

RADICULOPATHY:

Cervical Radiculopathy is generally described as pain caused by a pinched nerve root, the cause of the pinched nerve can be from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease.

A herniated disc occurs when a spinal disc ruptures, which then presses against a nerve root; this causes a pinched nerve, which leads to pain and tingling throughout various parts of the body. Spinal stenosis occurs when the bones within the spinal canal grow inward, which then pinch a nerve root, causing many to seek pain treatment. Finally, degenerative disc disease occurs when the spinal disc weakens, which then allows the spinal columns to shift out of position and press on nerve roots. All of these issues form the basis for cervical radiculopathy.

For the best pain care service available, University Spine & Pain Center can help treat all of your chronic pain symptoms with top-notch service and experience.

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