Normal & Abnormal Discs
Back Pain Treatment
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Disclaimer
The content provided on this web site is for information only. There are links to useful sites to visit. This site is not a substitute for a personal consultation with a qualified medical professional and Genodisc cannot be held responsible for the information found in any of the links. If you are in any doubt you must consult your doctor.
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What Is Disc Degeneration?
'Disc degeneration' is the term used when the disc tissue in between the bones of the spine deteriorates. This is a process that involves a chain of events. Physical changes can be seen in the outward appearance of the disc (see the picture on the left). Biochemical changes inside the discs allow blood vessels and nerves, which are not normally there, to start growing into the discs.
What Causes Disc Degeneration?
The reasons why discs degenerate so early in life is not known. Ageing and environmental factors play some part
but genetic studies with twins have shown that heavy lifting is not always the cause.
How is it Diagnosed?
There are few objective criteria for the diagnosis of degenerative disc disorders. For many patients there is no
clear link between symptoms and a pathological process. New types of investigations and diagnostic techniques are
thus necessary; to understand what is actually occurring in the degenerate disc and the origins of back pain.
How is it Treated?
Although conservative treatment (eg physiotherapy) is usually the first option-line, some patients eventually
resort to surgery. New treatments, such as gene therapy, whole disc prostheses, and implants (hydrogels, tissue and
cell implants) are being developed. However, more needs to be known about the state of the disc in health and
disease before these techniques can be employed.
Can it be Prevented?
It may be possible to prevent low back pain developing into a chronic condition if patients whose pain is
likely worsen are treated earlier with appropriate exercise regimes.
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