Disc Degeneration

Disc degeneration is a prevalent condition that affects many individuals, contributing to discomfort and limitations in daily activities. Disc degeneration involves the natural deterioration of the spinal discs, which serve as cushions between the vertebrae in the spine. Age-related changes can cause these discs to lose hydration and flexibility, impacting their ability to absorb shocks, which might increase the risk of injuries.

Symptoms Of Disc Degeneration

Localised or Radiating Pain

A common symptom of disc degeneration is localised or radiating pain, which occurs when deteriorating disc tissue compresses or irritates nearby nerves.

Numbness or Tingling

This can often be experienced as either localised or radiating sensations along the nerve pathways affected by compression or irritation.

Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness can often present as reduced strength in the affected muscles due to nerve compression or irritation.

Pain Worsening with Movement

Pain that worsens with movement, as physical activity increases mechanical stress on the spine and further compresses irritated nerves.

Age-related Wear and Tear

A hallmark of disc degeneration is age-related wear and tear, which gradually diminishes the flexibility and shock-absorbing properties of the spinal discs over time.

Pain Comes And Goes

You may also experience intermittent pain, which comes and goes as nerve compression and inflammation vary with changes in movement and posture.

Causes

  • Drying out of the disc over time
  • Daily activities
  • Sports
  • Injuries

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis by a spine specialist is essential to start the right treatment method and prevent future issues. A spine specialist can diagnose the problem by performing a physical examination and asking about all relevant symptoms. Moreover, the spine specialist may conduct diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend treatment accordingly. These tests may include an MRI, a CT Scan and a Myelogram.

Disc Degeneration Treatment In Singapore


Treatment varies significantly depending on the severity of symptoms and individual needs. Treatment options can include physical therapy, medications to manage pain and inflammation and possibly surgical interventions for severe cases. Other treatments might involve procedures like spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement.

Conservative Approaches

This will include physiotherapy (exercises and dry-needling) and medication to control the patient's pain for suitable cases.

Injections

This can include nucleoplasty and radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

FAQs on Disc Degeneration

Several factors can increase the risk of developing disc degeneration. These include age, repetitive physical activities that strain the spine, obesity, smoking and genetic predisposition.

This condition can reduce flexibility and limit the range of motion, affecting daily activities. Effective management through medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments can help maintain an active lifestyle.

Home management strategies may include staying active, practising good posture, using ergonomic supports and engaging in exercises that strengthen the core muscles.

With appropriate management, it is possible to maintain a good quality of life despite the challenges of disc degeneration. If you are seeking further information on managing this condition, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for comprehensive guidance.
Our Specialist

About Gamaliel Tan

MBBS (S'pore), MMED (S'pore), FAMS (Ortho), FRCS (Edin)

Dr Gamaliel Tan is a spine surgeon in Singapore with over 25 years of experience in designing and providing effective solutions for different orthopaedic problems. He specialises in spine surgery and has experience in endoscopic spine surgery and motion preservation spine procedures (artificial disc replacements).

Qualifications and Achievements
  • Head of Department, Department of Orthopaedics | NTFGH 2009 - 2018
  • Council member of the AOSpine East Asia group 2017 – 2020
  • Head of the Spine Division | NTFGH 2009 - 2023
  • Group Chief Medical Informatics Officer (GCMIO) | NUHS 2020-2023

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