Degenerative Disc Disease Support Group
Degeneration of the intervertebral disc, which is often called "degenerative disc disease" (DDD) of the spine, DDD is in fact a condition that can be painful and can greatly affect the quality of one's life. While disc degeneration is not a normal part of aging and for most people is not a problem, for certain individuals a degenerated disc can cause severe constant...
I have been trying to get a second opinion on my back problems. I saw an orthopedic surgeon who diagnosed my degenerative disk disease and they told me there was no treatment options. I am not doubting the diagnosis but I do not believe that there is nothing they can do to help with my condition. I am 19 years old and they told me that there is nothing they can do and that I will live my whole life with chronic pain. I have been trying to find another doctor to see if someone else has any ideas on treatment options but I cannot find one near me and on top of that my insurance company won't cover a second opinion. Does anyone have any advice or have gone through something simular? Does anyone know of any good orthopedic surgeons specifically who specialize in spinal surgery? I do not care where they are in the US I am willing to travel to see someone good.
When you were in elementary (usually 6th grade) they come to the school and check for scoliosis. Do you recall being checked for that?
Where is your pain? Does it hurt when you sit? Is it better when you stand? It is possible you could have a nerve impingement.
Of course there are things you can do. If you have a massage school in your area call and see when they give student massages. You could google back exercises on the net. Try some them.
Does anyone in your family have DDD? It is hereditary. Both of my sons inherited it from me. Kayleigh it usually
starts slow with flare ups which generally result from a long car ride or lifting something heavy. That is the time to apply ice. I have lots of tricks.
Main thing is to know when your really need help. When the pain isn't going away. Then it is time for nerve blocks or other procedures. These are things the orthopedic doctor would order.
The last thing you want is surgery.
I will accept a friend request if you want more information.
hippy
I have had x-rays and I am having an MRI next week. They never checked for scoliosis at my school but I was diagnosed with a moderate curve at a fairly young age, as well as scheuermann's kyphosis which is moderate to severe.
My pain is in my upper back centered around my spine as well as my arms wrists and hands. I think given the arm pain nerve involvement is likely. The pain is better when I lay down for long periods of time, but sitting and standing make it worse.
Also I would like to clarify that I in no way am trying to push for surgery. I would much rather find a less risky and less invasive approach to help my pain. However the most I got out of my doctor was that I should "exercise" he didn't really tell me much of anything concrete about my condition or even what kind of options I have as far as treatment goes. I am all for exercise and a more natural approach but i do want to know how I should go about it so that I do not risk injuring myself in the process.
Also I have tried acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, and naturopathic medicine for years and it brings me very little to no relief, and all of my doctors keep telling me to take ibuprofen (haha) as if that does anything but upset my stomach. There is no history of DDD in my family however I am currently be assessed for marfans which they think could be why I have DDD at such a young age.
I would appreciate any input you can give me, and thank you for taking the time to reply.
-Kayleigh
Degenerative disc disease encompasses a great deal. There are bulging disc, bone spurs, stenosis, osteo arthritis of the facets. So what is going on with your spine you will want to know and need to know.
Despite the pain the worst thing you can do is stay in bed. I am sure you are up moving around as much as you can. That keeps your muscles strong. I am not even sure of exercises for upper back. I only know lower.
If there is inflammation there are other meds beside OTC like Tylenol.
If possible keep the arm in motion so as not to allow your shoulder to freeze.
The pain in arm and shoulder should be treated if the pain level is high. Usually a cortisone injection will help . Then some simple exercises.
Wishes for less pain
hippy
https://youtu.be/_hJbIXfHUus