In short:
- Symptoms and Diagnosis: Pain, stiffness, and imaging help identify the condition.
- The Best Doctors: Neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine specialists with team support are ideal.
- Treatment Focus: Pain relief, lifestyle changes, and tailored plans improve outcomes.
The best doctor for degenerative disc disease is a spine specialist who understands the condition’s complexities. This condition happens when the spinal discs wear out over time. This can cause ongoing pain, stiffness, and trouble moving, which can make daily life harder.
Degenerative disc disease cannot be completely fixed. However, the right treatment can make a big difference in how you feel. Picking the right doctor is a key step in managing this condition well. Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery’s team of experts offers both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for patients.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Degenerative disc disease often causes back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, or stiffness. Symptoms can vary and may worsen with certain movements.
Doctors diagnose it by:
- Reviewing your medical history.
- Doing a physical exam.
- Using imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans.
These tests show the damaged discs and rule out other issues. An accurate diagnosis helps create a treatment plan. Catching it early allows for better care and prevents it from getting worse.
What Kind of Doctor Is Best for Degenerative Disc Disease?
Primary care doctors can start by assessing your condition and managing basic pain. However, for long-term and specialized care, spine specialists are the best choice.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, these are highly trained neurosurgeons. Orthopedic surgeons specializing in spinal conditions are also a great choice.
These specialists have advanced knowledge of spinal anatomy and related conditions. They often work with a team that includes:
- Pain management doctors
- Physical therapists
- Rehab specialists
This team-based approach ensures patients receive complete care that addresses every part of their condition.
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, board-certified providers focus on advanced spine treatments. Our doctors have deep experience with degenerative disc disease. This allows them to provide non-surgical and surgical options tailored to each patient.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Doctors usually start with nonsurgical methods to manage degenerative disc disease. These options include:
- Physical therapy
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Improving posture
- Medications and targeted injections
Best Painkillers for Degenerative Disc Disease
For mild to moderate pain, over-the-counter options work well when used as directed.
For more severe pain, doctors may prescribe muscle relaxants for spasms. Nerve pain medications can also help with neurological symptoms.
Cortisone injections can provide targeted relief for months. A spine specialist will recommend the best pain management plan based on your symptoms and health.
Physical Therapy
Pain management goes beyond medication. Physical therapy strengthens core muscles and improves spinal stability. Posture training and low-impact exercises like swimming or walking help healing without stressing the spine.
When Surgery Is Needed
Surgery is considered when nonsurgical degenerative disc disease treatments do not provide enough relief. Common procedures include:
- Spinal fusion: Joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine.
- Artificial disc replacement: Replaces a damaged disc with an artificial one.
- Laminectomy: Removes part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on nerves.
- Discectomy: Removes the damaged part of a disc to reduce pain.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
According to the Mayo Clinic, minimally invasive techniques reduce recovery time. They also limit tissue damage.
Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery specializes in these advanced surgical options. We offer effective solutions for eligible patients.
Can You Live a Normal Life with a Degenerative Disc?
With proper care, many people live active lives. Early treatment and consistent management are key.
Lifestyle changes help protect the spine:
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding heavy lifting
Ongoing care with spine specialists prevents flare-ups and keeps symptoms under control. Regular follow-ups allow for progress tracking and treatment adjustments.
Benefits of Personalized Care
Personalized treatment focuses on each patient’s unique needs. No two cases are the same. Compared to generic treatments, tailored care can better:
- Improve outcomes
- Reduce pain
- Restore quality of life
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, specialists create customized plans that may include different options. These are based on the condition’s severity and patient preferences.
These plans adapt over time as patients respond to treatments, ensuring care stays effective throughout the process.
Finding the Best Doctor for Degenerative Disc Disease
Choosing the right doctor takes careful thought. Look for specialists trained in spine surgery or similar fields. Board certification and experience with spinal conditions show strong expertise.
Scheduling a consultation with a qualified neurosurgeon or spine specialist represents the best first step. These initial appointments allow patients to:
- Discuss symptoms
- Explore treatment options
- Develop personalized care plans
The Best Doctor for Degenerative Disc Disease in Colorado
The best doctor for degenerative disc disease near you is a spine specialist. They are often a board-certified neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon. These specialists have the expertise to handle the complexities of spinal conditions.
With the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and personalized care, patients can reduce pain and stay active. Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery offers advanced care, from non-surgical treatments to cutting-edge surgeries. Trust us today for expert care. Call us at (303) 790-1800 or use our online appointment request form to schedule a consultation.
We look forward to serving you!
