Musculoskeletal Condition · Glastonbury, CT

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease changes on scans may not explain back pain. Learn about evaluation and options with Dr. Tortland in Glastonbury, CT.

Written and clinically reviewed by

Paul D. Tortland, DO, FAOASM, CAQSM, RMSK

Dr. Paul Tortland, DO is a non-surgical orthopedic & sports medicine physician specializing in regenerative orthopedics and surgical alternative treatment. He is dual board-certified in Sports Medicine & Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) and Regenerative Medicine, Fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine. He became the first physician in the world to earn board certification in Regenerative Medicine in 2015. Diplomate, American Board of Regenerative Medicine (ABRM), 2015. Registered in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (RMSK).

Condition

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease describes age-related changes in the spinal discs. These changes may contribute to back pain, but disc changes are also common on scans in people who have no symptoms. Treatment depends on the actual pain source, which may be a disc, facet joint, irritated nerve, or another structure.

Explore related conditions: Browse the Back and spine condition hub for related diagnoses and treatment options.

CARE OPTIONS

How is degenerative disc disease managed?

Dr. Tortland’s potential treatment options: Dr. Tortland reviews whether disc changes on imaging plausibly explain symptoms; such changes are common and may not be the pain source. Orthobiologic injections such as PRP treatment may be discussed only for selected diagnoses, with a clear explanation that evidence and indications vary and treatment is not a guaranteed disc repair.

Physical therapy and traditional care: Physical therapy, gradual activity, trunk and hip strengthening, pacing, and changes to activities that aggravate pain are common first steps. Medication or other interventions may be considered by a clinician based on individual risks and findings.

When other care may be needed: Progressive weakness, saddle numbness, or bladder/bowel changes requires urgent assessment. Persistent pain or radiating symptoms may warrant further imaging or spine-specialist consultation.

Common questions

Questions about degenerative disc disease

What causes degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease reflects age-related drying and thinning of spinal discs, influenced by genetics, prior injury and mechanical loading. Disc changes are common on imaging and do not always cause pain, so the exam and symptoms matter when planning treatment.

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?

Symptoms may include back or neck pain and stiffness that flares with sitting, bending, or lifting. Some people also have nerve-related arm or leg symptoms. New weakness or bladder or bowel changes need urgent care.

What are the non-surgical treatment options for degenerative disc disease?

Most people are managed with physical therapy, activity modification, core and mobility work, and targeted injections when needed. Surgery is reserved for select cases with nerve compromise or disabling pain.

What regenerative options may help degenerative disc disease?

Regenerative options are generally directed at painful facet joints, ligaments, and irritated nerves around the degenerated segment. Evidence for restoring disc tissue itself is limited, and this is discussed candidly at consultation.