Degenerative Disc Disease and herniated discs both impact the spinal discs and can cause severe neck and back pain, but they are not one and the same. If you suspect you may be living with disc issues or have been diagnosed with either condition, understanding the similarities and differences between them is essential.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our world-class spine doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease and disc herniations. To help patients gain a more in-depth understanding of the two conditions, we’ve provided an overview of their characteristics and key differences below.
To learn more and receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances, book an initial consultation at the New Jersey Spine Institute in Bedminster, NJ today!
Understanding The Conditions
A review of basic spinal anatomy can be helpful in understanding Degenerative Disc Disease, disc herniations, and the factors that distinguish them from one another:
- The spinal column (also known as the vertebral column) is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae provide structural support for the upper body, allow for movement of the spine, and protect the spinal cord.
- In between the vertebrae are round, cushion-like structures known as spinal or intervertebral discs. They act as shock absorbers, prevent the vertebrae from rubbing directly against one another, and allow for flexibility in movement.
- Spinal discs have a rubbery exterior (annulus fibrosus) that surrounds a fluid-like interior (nucleus pulposus). Damage to these structures can result in significant pain and discomfort that affects mobility and quality of life.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Contrary to its name, Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is not actually a disease. Rather, it’s a degenerative condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of spinal discs due to age-related wear and tear. Over time, Degenerative Disc Disease can lead to chronic pain and instability in the spine. In some cases, it can even lead to one or more herniated discs.
Herniated Disc
Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, a herniated disc occurs when the fluid-like material inside a spinal disc is displaced and either bulges or leaks out through a tear in the disc’s rubbery exterior. Disc herniation can result in severe pain as well as other symptoms including numbness and/or muscle weakness, particularly if a nerve is pinched or irritated by the condition (which is often the case). Herniated discs frequently result from a sudden strain or traumatic injury.
Symptoms And Characteristics
A substantial overlap exists between the symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease and herniated discs. Both conditions can be associated with:
- Back and/or neck pain that may radiate into the extremities (arms or legs)
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
Degenerative Disc Disease
Symptoms more commonly associated with Degenerative Disc Disease than disc herniation include:
- Pain that worsens gradually over time
- Stiffness in the affected area of the spine that impacts the ability to perform certain movements such as bending or lifting
Herniated Disc
Symptoms more commonly associated with disc herniation than Degenerative Disc Disease include:
- Pain that starts suddenly after a strain, injury, or accident
- Intense pain that may be described as sharp, burning, or shooting
Causes And Risk Factors
Degenerative Disc Disease and disc herniation are distinguished by different primary causes:
Degenerative Disc Disease
The primary cause of Degenerative Disc Disease is age-related wear and tear on the spine, but genetics may also play a role. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity can also heighten the risk of developing the condition.
Herniated Disc
The primary causes of disc herniation include:
- Injury resulting from a fall, accident, or other traumatic event
- Repetitive strain from movements such as bending, lifting, and/or twisting
In some cases, disc herniation may also be the result of age-related degeneration of the spine, such as Degenerative Disc Disease.
Treatment Options
When treating Degenerative Disc Disease or disc herniation, our highly qualified and experienced team at the New Jersey Spine Institute is committed to exploring conservative or minimally invasive options before considering surgery. For both conditions, such options may include:
- Rest
- Ice or heat
- Pain medication
- Physical therapy
- Epidural steroid injections
If pain or neurological deficit is unresponsive to non-surgical treatment options, a surgical treatment approach may be considered. This could be a discectomy, laminotomy, spinal fusion, or artificial disc replacement, depending on the circumstances.
When To Seek Help
If back or neck pain is severe and/or accompanied by numbness or muscle weakness that is impacting your mobility and quality of life, it’s time to seek a medical evaluation. Our leading team of spine specialists at the New Jersey Spine Institute is ready to help.
Seeking Professional Help
Whether your back/neck pain stems from Degenerative Disc Disease, a herniated disc, or another condition altogether, our board-certified spine doctors have the extensive training, experience, and expertise necessary to support you in your journey toward lasting recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more! We look forward to working with you.