Intervertebral discs are like cushions between the bones of the spine (vertebrae). Discs’ main functions are to:
Disc degeneration or damaged vertebral discs can cause discogenic pain. Chemicals are released within a damaged disc that cause an inflammatory reaction. This causes the disc and the vertebrae on either to become chronically painful and stiff. It is estimated that discogenic pain accounts for between 28-40% of neck and back pain.
Most patients will experience chronic neck or low back pain. In the low back, pain is usually centralized and will be worse with sitting, coughing, sneezing, and bending while lying down or standing improves it. In the neck, pain will typically worsen with sustained bending and muscle spasms may occur.
The Interventional Pain Doctors team of spine and pain management specialists can diagnose discogenic pain during a comprehensive history and physical examination. In addition, we may also request diagnostic tests such as an MRI, X-rays, CT Scans or in some cases discography.
The Interventional Pain Doctors team of spine and pain management specialists offer many cutting edge options to treat discogenic pain from degenerative disc disease. Epidurals, radiofrequency ablation, facet blocks, intradiscal treatments, Intracept (non-surgical-minimally invasive radiofrequency of the basovertebral nerve), and surgery such as disc replacement are among some of the many options we offer to regain and restore your function.
Let us help you achieve a pain free life.