Non-surgical Treatments for Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is relatively common in aging adults and seldom requires surgery. In fact, although 80% of adults will experience back pain, only 1%-2% will need surgery. When medical attention is needed, the majority of patients respond well to nonsurgical forms of treatment, and recovery occurs in about six weeks.

During your recovery period, your doctor may recommend rest or restricted activity. You may need bed rest for a few days to take the pressure off of your nerves—but you won’t be in bed for more than a few days. Extended bed rest is no longer recommended for back pain. Mild activity is preferred for better healing, and your doctor may suggest walking, bicycling, or swimming. To help you heal, you may be asked to wear a brace for back support.

Medications may be prescribed (below). Anti-inflammatory agents reduce swelling while relieving pain. Narcotic pain relievers may be prescribed for intense but short-lived pain (acute pain). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) agents are available over-the-counter, but it is wise to discuss NSAID use with your doctor as they have a risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects.

Medications

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Pain relievers
• Muscle relaxants
• Spinal injections (anesthetics, corticosteroids)
• Antidepressants
• Sleep aids

You may also consider going to a physical therapist, chiropractor, or acupuncturist. If needed, your doctor will refer you to a physical therapist. Physical therapy includes passive treatments such as cold or heat, deep tissue massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. These treatments help prepare you for therapeutic exercise—the active part of physical therapy. Spinal manipulation by a chiropractor who uses gentle adjustments to help restore spinal function may be better than medication. Acupuncture can control pain, but it should be combined with other treatments, like exercise.