Degenerative Disc Disease & Spinal Stenosis: Managing Pain and Maintaining Mobility
DDD refers to age‑related wear and tear of spinal discs, leading to decreased disc height, loss of flexibility, and chronic back pain.
How is it connected to spinal stenosis?
DDD can cause bony overgrowth and ligament thickening, narrow the spinal canal (stenosis), and compress nerves.
Symptoms
- Chronic, diffuse back pain worsened by bending
- Leg pain, numbness, or weakness (neurogenic claudication)
- Symptom relief often comes from sitting down or bending forward
Diagnosis
MRI and CT scans help assess disc and canal narrowing. Myelography may be used in certain cases.
Treatment regimes
- Conservative: Physical therapy, posture exercises, weight loss
- Therapeutic injections: Help reduce nerve root inflammation
- Surgical options: Laminectomy to decompress nerves with or without spinal fusion to stabilize the spine
Why seek specialty care?
Spine surgeries require precision—restoring function without compromising stability. Dr. Sridhar Jakkepally’s surgical training includes these procedures, offering multidisciplinary care via ONUS and People’s Hospitals, ensuring patient safety and long‑term success.
Frequently Asked Questions for Degenerative Disc Disease & Spinal Stenosis
- How does degenerative disc disease develop?
It’s a natural aging process where spinal discs lose flexibility and cushioning. - What is spinal stenosis, and how is it linked to DDD?
It’s a narrowing of the spinal canal often caused by disc degeneration and bone spurs. - What symptoms indicate spinal stenosis?
Leg pain during walking, numbness, weakness, and relief with sitting or bending. - Can spinal stenosis be treated without surgery?
Yes, in early stages—therapy, injections, and medication can help. - What treatments does Dr. Sridhar offer for spinal stenosis?
He performs laminectomy and other advanced procedures for effective relief and mobility.
