Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a common cause of chronic neck and back pain that develops as the spinal discs lose hydration, elasticity, and height over time. These changes can lead to pain, stiffness, and nerve irritation. At Pain Consultants of East Tennessee, our multidisciplinary approach focuses on identifying the specific source of pain and offering advanced, minimally invasive treatments that relieve symptoms and restore function.

Quick facts

  • Region affected: Cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine
  • Common symptoms: Back or neck pain, stiffness, radiating leg or arm pain
  • Causes: Natural aging, repetitive stress, genetics, or injury
  • Treatment goal: Reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further disc degeneration

Who it affects

  • Adults over age 30 experiencing chronic neck or back pain
  • Individuals with a history of repetitive motion, spinal injury, or heavy labor
  • Patients with stiffness or pain that worsens with sitting or bending
  • Those with pain radiating into the arms or legs due to nerve involvement

How it develops

Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility and shock absorption. Over time, these discs can dehydrate and wear down, losing height and elasticity. As the disc degenerates, nearby vertebrae and joints experience more stress, which can lead to inflammation, bone spur formation, or nerve compression—resulting in chronic pain and limited movement.

What to expect from treatment

After a thorough evaluation, including physical examination and imaging studies, your provider will develop a customized treatment plan to relieve pain and strengthen spinal support. Treatment options may include:

  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pain caused by disc degeneration.
  • Facet Joint Injections or Medial Branch Blocks: Address joint pain resulting from degenerative stress.
  • Basivertebral Nerve Ablation (BVN): Targets pain signals originating within the vertebrae themselves.
  • Physical Therapy: Strengthens muscles supporting the spine and improves flexibility.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: Provides long-term relief for chronic disc-related pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments.

Benefits & goals

  • Reduce neck or back pain
  • Improve flexibility and mobility
  • Decrease inflammation and nerve irritation
  • Delay or prevent surgical intervention
  • Support long-term spine health and function

Risks of untreated degenerative disc disease

  • Chronic pain and stiffness
  • Progressive spinal instability
  • Nerve compression leading to arm or leg weakness
  • Loss of mobility and decreased quality of life

Is it right for me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Chronic neck or back pain lasting longer than six weeks
  • ✅ Imaging shows disc height loss or degeneration
  • ✅ Pain worsens with sitting, bending, or twisting
  • ✅ Limited relief from medications or conservative care

Treatment options at PCET

FAQs

  • Is DDD part of normal aging? Yes—disc degeneration is common with age, but not everyone experiences pain.
  • Can it be reversed? While disc degeneration can’t be reversed, treatment can effectively manage symptoms and improve function.
  • When is surgery needed? Surgery is reserved for severe cases with nerve compression or spinal instability unresponsive to other treatments.
  • Can injections help? Yes—targeted injections reduce inflammation and pain caused by irritated nerves or joints.
  • Is exercise safe? Low-impact exercise and core strengthening are beneficial and often part of treatment.

📞 Call to Schedule

If you’re experiencing chronic neck or back pain caused by Degenerative Disc Disease, we offer advanced, minimally invasive options to help you find lasting relief. Call us at 865-934-2567 to schedule your appointment today.