Medication for neck pain: Types and other treatments
How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Treated?
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Medically reviewed by Cara Beth Lee, MD
Degenerative disc disease treatment aims to minimize symptoms and prevent further disc degeneration. Damage to the disc cannot be reversed. The right treatment option may depend on the extent of deterioration.
Degenerative disc disease is caused by the wear of the shock-absorbing discs (intervertebral discs) between the spinal vertebrae. It can occur in any area of the spine. The symptoms of degenerative disc disease include back pain (especially when sitting), numbness and tingling in the hands or feet, and weakness in the legs.
This article will cover the different treatment options for degenerative disc disease, including conservative treatment and surgery.
MedicationMedication can minimize pain and inflammation in people with degenerative disc disease. It will not stop the progression of the condition, but decrease its symptoms.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)NSAIDs are medications that decrease inflammation and pain. They can relieve the associated back pain and decrease inflammation in the joints in those with degenerative disc disease.
Aspirin and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) are common over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs. Prescription NSAIDs include Nalfon (fenoprofen), ketoprofen, and sulindac.
Potential side effects of NSAIDs include ringing in the ears, dizziness, gas, bloating, constipation, and nervousness. People who are on blood thinners, have poor kidney function, or are pregnant should talk to their healthcare provider before taking an NSAID.
Nonnarcotic Pain RelieversTylenol (acetaminophen) is a common OTC pain reliever. Prescription nonnarcotic pain relievers may also be recommended by a healthcare provider.
Narcotic MedicationsNarcotic pain medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider when pain is moderate to severe.
Narcotics like codeine and morphine work in the central nervous system (CNS) to numb pain. While narcotics are an effective pain medication, they do carry many side effects. These include:
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Constipation is a very common narcotic side effect. Talk to a healthcare provider about starting a stool softener or increasing dietary fiber.
Muscle RelaxantsIf someone is having muscle spasms in their back then a muscle relaxant may be a good choice to help relieve pain and spasms. Common muscle relaxants include Soma (carisoprodol) and Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine).
Muscle relaxants should not be used long-term, but rather for just three to four days. There are serious side effects like depression and drowsiness.
AntidepressantsAntidepressants may be used to treat pain and poor sleep in people with degenerative disc disease. The chemical reactions in neurons that cause depression seem to be the same nerve pathways as pain.
Using an antidepressant may not be right for everyone, but can be helpful to regain a normal sleep routine due to back pain.
Physical TherapyPeople with degenerative disc disease may benefit from physical therapy. The overall goal of physical therapy will be to decrease pain and improve muscle strength and flexibility. This will help the body support the spine and reduce pain and stiffness.
There are many different treatments used under the physical therapy umbrella. They may include:
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): The electrical stimulation from a TENS unit interferes with or blocks pain signals and can work for back pain.
Strength training: Strengthening the core can stabilize the spine and reduce back pain.
Improving flexibility: This can improve spine mobility and range of motion. Stretching also decreases back spasms.
Posture training: Poor posture contributes to back pain. A physical therapist can teach someone how to sit, stand, and move correctly.
Regular exercise is an important component in maintaining spine health. Exercise strengthens back and abdominal muscles, which support the spine. A person with degenerative disc disease should talk to a healthcare provider before beginning an exercise routine. Ask if any motions (such as twisting) should be avoided.
Many types of exercise can be used, like weight training, aerobic exercise, and aquatic therapy, as follows:
Weight training combines weights with exercise and helps to prevent bone loss and strengthen muscles.
Aerobic exercise like walking, cycling, or running increases the heart rate and blood pressure while also releasing endorphins (the body's natural pain relievers).
Aquatic therapy, or exercise in a pool, is an effective and low-impact aerobic exercise that is beneficial to people with degenerative disc disease. The water decreases pressure on the spine allowing the person to get the benefits of a workout without all the physical stress.
Chiropractic care uses adjustments to the spine to correct improper alignments, reduce pain, and improve the body's ability to heal itself. There is limited research on the effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care for people with degenerative disc disease, so it should be discussed with a healthcare provider before use.
AcupunctureAcupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice in which thin needles are inserted into the skin in different areas of the body. An acupuncturist will place the needles along meridians (traditional energy pathways). Acupuncture may improve healing by increasing blood flow or relieve pain by releasing endorphins.
Heat or Cold TherapyHeat and cold therapy is a common treatment used to alleviate pain in joints.
Cold therapy works by applying an ice pack or cold towel to the painful area for 20 minutes at a time. The cold will interrupt the pain signal, thereby reducing pain. It will also cause the surrounding blood vessels to tighten, which will reduce swelling.
Heat can be used with a warm towel or heating pad. The heat will soothe sore muscles and dilate the surrounding blood vessels, which improves blood flow to the area.
Spine InjectionsA steroid spine injection can reduce back pain and inflammation caused by degenerative disc disease. The injections use a combination of steroid medication and numbing medicine. Pain relief usually starts soon after the injection and lasts a few weeks to months.
Healthcare providers may limit the number of steroid injections a person can receive in a year. Too many can cause an infection or skin discoloration. Steroid injections are typically used when other conservative treatments are not successful.
BracingAnother nonsurgical option for degenerative disc disease is a back brace. A back brace is a medical device that is wrapped around the lower back and secured with Velcro. The brace does not completely immobilize the back but does reduce the ability to move. It can stabilize the spine and reduce tension in people with degenerative disc disease.
SurgeryWhen degenerative disc disease does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. Below are the different surgical options that can be used.
Disc ReplacementDisc replacement is used in place of a spinal fusion in people under 65 years of age who have a herniated disc in the neck. An artificial disc is placed where the damaged disc is removed. One of the greatest benefits is that it allows flexibility and stability in the spine.
People who have a disc replacement can usually go home after one night in the hospital and can walk within 24 hours. They may need to wear a brace for support during the first few weeks after surgery.
DiscectomyA discectomy is a common surgery used in the treatment of degenerative disc disease. During the procedure, the injured part of the disc is removed. This alleviates pressure on the surrounding nerves by making room in the spinal canal.
Spinal FusionA spinal fusion is when a surgeon permanently joins the vertebrae to eliminate movement and stabilize parts of the spine. Spinal fusion may be necessary when there is a severely degenerated disc. It is sometimes done in conjunction with a discectomy and is more often done on the neck than the lower back.
A spinal fusion requires an overnight stay at the hospital. The patient may need to wear a brace after surgery and will need to minimize activity until their surgeon clears them.
How to Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease From Getting WorseWhile preventing degenerative disc disease may not be possible, there are several ways to decrease the rate of degeneration. Here are a few steps that can be taken:
Stop smoking. Research shows that smoking increases the rate at which the intervertebral disc degenerates.
Exercise. Regular exercise will strengthen the back and core muscles that support the spine.
Maintain a healthy weight. People with elevated body mass index (BMI) have a higher likelihood of developing degenerative disc disease.
Degenerative disc disease is a progressive condition that results when the cushions in between the vertebrae wear down. There is no cure for the condition and treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing further degeneration. Current treatments include exercise, physical therapy, and in severe cases surgery. Talk to a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment route.
12 Best CBD Oil For Degenerative Disc Disease In 2023
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The medical world continues its relentless pursuit of effective treatments for degenerative disc disease, a condition that affects countless individuals worldwide. Amidst this quest, CBD oil emerged as a promising option, garnering significant attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. Within the vast landscape of CBD products, a diligent evaluation led to the identification of the 12 best CBD oils specifically tailored to address degenerative disc disease.
These carefully selected oils have gained recognition for their exceptional quality, rigorous testing, and positive user feedback, positioning them as trusted allies in the battle against this debilitating condition. Join us as we delve into the realm of these remarkable CBD oils, exploring their unique qualities and the potential they hold for those seeking relief from degenerative disc disease in this groundbreaking year.
12 Best CBD Oil for Degenerative Disc Disease in 2023Penguin CBD Oil
Everest D8 Oil
Calm by Wellness Sleep Blueberry Lavender Oil
CBDfx Wellness Tincture
Joy Organics Full Spectrum Lime CBD Oil
Charlotte's Web CBD Oil
One Farm Organic CBD Oil
Lazarus Naturals CBD Oil
Planet People Drops + Relief
Lazarus Naturals CBD Body and Massage Oil
Level Select CBD Drops
Colorado Botanicals Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the intervertebral discs, which are the cushions between the vertebrae in the spine. It is characterized by the gradual breakdown, degeneration, and changes in the discs over time. Although the term "disease" is used, it is actually a natural part of the aging process and not a disease in the traditional sense.
The intervertebral discs consist of a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like inner core called the nucleus pulposus. The discs serve as shock absorbers, allowing for flexibility and movement of the spine. However, as people age, the discs can lose their water content, become thinner, and develop small cracks or tears in the outer layer. These changes can lead to a range of symptoms.
Common symptoms of degenerative disc disease include:
Back or neck pain: The degeneration of discs can cause chronic pain in the affected area. The pain may be localized or radiate to other parts of the body, such as the buttocks, legs, or arms.
Stiffness: DDD can cause stiffness and reduced flexibility in the spine, making it difficult to perform certain movements or activities.
Numbness and tingling: If a degenerated disc compresses nearby nerves, it can lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
Herniated disc: In some cases, a degenerated disc may protrude or bulge out of its normal position, potentially pressing on spinal nerves. This can cause additional symptoms like sciatica (pain radiating down the leg) or cervical radiculopathy (pain radiating down the arm).
Several factors can contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease, including age, genetics, smoking, obesity, and repetitive stress or injury to the spine. While the degenerative changes cannot be reversed, the symptoms of DDD can often be managed through a combination of conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, pain medications, hot/cold therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.
How can CBD oil help with degenerative disc disease?CBD oil may offer potential benefits for individuals with degenerative disc disease. It has been suggested that CBD, a compound derived from the cannabis plant, may help alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. Here are some ways CBD oil may potentially help:
1. Pain relief: CBD has shown analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce chronic pain caused by degenerative disc disease. It can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to modulate pain signals and reduce inflammation, providing relief.
2. Muscle relaxation: CBD may act as a muscle relaxant, potentially helping to alleviate muscle spasms and stiffness associated with degenerative disc disease. By promoting relaxation, CBD can contribute to reducing discomfort.
3. Sleep improvement: Chronic pain from degenerative disc disease can disrupt sleep patterns. CBD has been reported to have calming effects and may help improve sleep quality. By promoting relaxation and reducing pain, CBD oil may aid individuals in getting better rest.
4. Anxiety reduction: Dealing with chronic pain and its impact on daily life can lead to anxiety and stress. CBD has been studied for its potential anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. By reducing anxiety, CBD oil may contribute to an overall sense of well-being in individuals with degenerative disc disease.
It's important to note that research on CBD and degenerative disc disease is still limited, and individual responses may vary. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD oil, especially if taking other medications, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific situation.
How to Start Using CBD Oils SafelyTo start using CBD oils safely, it is important to follow some guidelines. First and foremost, consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD oil into your routine, especially if you have any existing medical conditions or take medications. They can provide personalized advice and ensure CBD is suitable for you. When choosing a CBD oil product, opt for reputable manufacturers that prioritize quality, transparency, and third-party testing.
Look for clear information about CBD content, extraction methods, and certificates of analysis to verify potency and purity. Start with a low dosage and gradually increase it as needed to determine the optimal amount for your needs. Remember that individual responses to CBD vary, so finding the right dosage may require some experimentation.
Monitor your body's response and be aware of potential side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite. If any severe side effects occur, discontinue use and seek medical advice. It's important to be mindful of potential drug interactions, so consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are taking other medications.
Now that you know more about CBD oils and what degenerative disc disease is, it's time to read on to learn more details about the 12 best CBD oil for degenerative disc disease in 2023:
Penguin CBD Oil is a premium product made from top-quality hemp grown in Oregon. It is carefully crafted using an optimized broad-spectrum extract to provide a refreshing experience for both the body and mind. With delicious flavors like mint, citrus, natural, strawberry, and cookies & cream, there's something to suit every preference. Customers can choose from four different strengths: 250 mg, 600 mg, 1,000 mg, and 2,500 mg. Each bottle is individually manufactured for optimal freshness, ensuring that customers receive their pristine CBD oil ready to use from Penguin.
Everest Delta 8 Oil offers high-quality Delta-8 THC oils derived from premium, naturally grown hemp. With a potent strength of 1,000 mg, users can expect a robust and impactful experience. The oil features a refreshing mint flavor that enhances the overall sensory experience. Notably, Everest Delta 8 Oil takes pride in its vegan formulation, accommodating different dietary preferences and restrictions. Furthermore, the oil is Non-GMO, showcasing the company's dedication to utilizing natural and sustainable ingredients. Customers can have confidence in Everest Delta 8 Oil as it is made in the USA, adhering to rigorous quality standards and legal requirements.
3. Calm by Wellness Sleep Blueberry Lavender OilTheir CBD + CBN for sleep oil tincture provides the ideal combination, promoting longer, deeper sleep. They diligently created a CBD Oil for Sleep after realizing the deep benefits of getting enough sleep. This particular formulation seeks to help users establish regular peaceful evenings so they can get a good night's sleep every night.
4. CBDfx Wellness TinctureA scientifically created mix is CBDfx's Wellness Tincture 2:1 Ratio CBD to CBG - Broad Spectrum. This tincture provides additional health advantages because it contains antioxidants with a track record, such as Curcumin and Coenzyme Q10. By boosting absorption and potency, the unique terpene combination improves the product's performance. By making the tincture vegan and gluten-free, CBDfx emphasizes inclusion and takes into account a variety of dietary preferences and constraints.
5. Joy Organics Full Spectrum Lime CBD OilOne of the CBD oil tinctures Joy Organics offers is Full Spectrum Lime. This non-THC product is made from organic hemp farmed in the US. The oil tastes revitalizing and has a refreshing lime flavor, and the use of peppermint essential oil ensures that customers will be satisfied. Due to the variety of terpenes and cannabinoids it contains, the broad spectrum blend has a strong effect.
A thorough extraction procedure and high production standards show Joy Organics' dedication to excellence. Their products go through independent testing to guarantee their potency and purity. Each tincture also has a THC content of less than 0.3 percent, so users can consume it without worrying about becoming high or losing their faculties.
6. Charlotte's Web CBD Oil1 ML contains 60 CBD. Customers seeking the highest CBD per mL concentration for their CBD supplement routine and dosage are catered to by Charlotte's Web CBD Oil. Since this product was created using a full-spectrum hemp extract that includes a variety of phytocannabinoids, it is most appropriate for those who are already familiar with CBD and want to advance. Customers have a wide range of flavor selections because the oil is offered in a number of natural flavors, including Mint Chocolate, Lemon Twist, and Orange Blossom.
7. One Farm Organic CBD OilOne Farm's USDA Organic CBD Oil was created as a proprietary natural solution to support different lifestyles. One Farm offers Full Spectrum USDA Organic CBD that meets customers' needs, no matter how knowledgeable they are with CBD or where they are in their CBD journey. Customers can choose from a range of alternatives, including four strengths, four flavors, and two sizes, to find the perfect product to meet their interests and requirements.
8. Lazarus Naturals CBD OilFor many reasons, the Classic High Potency CBD Oil Tincture is a well-liked best-seller and an important part of any daily routine. This popular full-spectrum tincture is notable for its strength, adaptability, and skillful composition. It is renowned for its organic and earthy flavor. It has earned a reputation for being extraordinary because it lays a major emphasis on promoting rest, recuperation, and general health. Because it is a superbly made product that provides a solid foundation for everyone looking for the greatest advantages, it is appealing.
9. Planet People Drops + ReliefPlanet People Drops + Relief is a carefully crafted tincture that contains both CBD and CBG. Users receive additional benefits from this combo, such as better sleep, beyond what CBD by itself could offer. A number of healthy natural substances, such as essential oils, adaptogens, herbs, and vitamins, are also included in the product. These components support its mellow, well-balanced effects and pleasant refreshment. The best solution for customers who want to preserve a sense of general wellness without sacrificing flavor is Planet People Drops + Relief.
10. Lazarus Naturals CBD Body and Massage OilThe Lazarus Naturals CBD Body + Massage Oil was thoughtfully created to help total body renewal and give complete hydration. To create a beautiful experience that revitalizes the skin, this amazing oil combines the moisturizing qualities of jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and their full spectrum CBD. For individuals who prefer a mild scent while yet obtaining all the benefits, the product's lack of odour appeals. Lazarus Naturals CBD Body + Massage Oil's special formulation enhances moments of relaxation and supports general wellbeing.
11. Level Select CBD DropsIntroducing Level Select's CBD oil drops, particularly the Level 1 CBD oil drops. Because it has 1200 mg of Broad Spectrum CBD per bottle and 20 mg of CBD per serving, it's a fantastic option for people who are new to CBD oils. These drops offer a revitalizing mint flavor that improves the overall experience and are intended to help daily wellness. The Level 1 CBD Oil Drops are suitable for everyday use because they don't contain THC and aren't psychoactive. This item, which has a net weight of 2 fl oz (60 mL), provides a reliable and practical CBD choice.
12. Colorado Botanicals Broad Spectrum CBD OilThe popular tincture Broad Spectrum CBD Oil from Colorado Botanicals is available on this page. 25mg of CBD per 1mL is a powerful and useful amount provided by this oil. Customers are encouraged to make purchases by the business's generous 60-day no-questions-asked return policy.
The key cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in the oil are guaranteed by the Broad Spectrum formulation, increasing the potential benefits. Careful CO2 extraction of CBD without the use of any solvents preserves the purity of the final product. The Colorado-grown organic hemp utilized in the extraction process highlights the dedication to quality even further. People can benefit from CBD without suffering any psychoactive side effects with a THC-free formulation, ensuring a non-intoxicating experience.
DePuy Launches New Interbody Implant For Degenerative Disc Disease
DePuy Synthes, an orthopedic and neurosurgery company owned by Johnson & Johnson, recently announced the launch of their new flagship technology, the CONCORDE LIFT Interbody Implant. The new implantable device was designed to help treat patients suffering from degenerative disc disease, a condition that can cause extreme pain from a damaged disc in the spine.
The implantable device was designed as part of a new procedural solution that can simplify minimally invasive spine surgery procedures used to help restore disc height in the spinal column. This is typically done through the process of spinal fusion, a surgical procedure that places bone or bone-like material within the space between two spinal vertebrae. In an effort to simplify the procedure, DePuy created the CONCORDE LIFT implant to provide patients with a device that can specifically fit each patient's anatomy due to a continuous expansion mechanism.
"To help treat patients suffering from advanced degenerative disc disease, the degenerated disc is first removed, and then the CONCORDE LIFT Expandable Interbody device is inserted and expanded, with the procedural aim of restoring height of the disc space," said Nadav Tomer, worldwide president of DePuy Synthes. "The device is an expandable titanium cage with instrumentation that delivers control and performance to clinicians through tactile feedback and reliable graft delivery. It is designed with a continuous expansion mechanism, which allows the surgeon to specifically fit the intervertebral cage to the patient's anatomy, creating a more personalized solution."
Perhaps the most novel part of the technology comes after the implant is inserted and the surgeon creates the necessary expansion. After implantation, the device can then be backfilled with bone graft to maximize bone graft contact and containment, which will help promote bone growth and increase the chances of successful spinal fusion.
"The key difference compared to the majority of other expandable cages on the market is the fact that the CONCORDE LIFT can be backfilled with bone graft post-expansion," Tomer said. "One of the key requirements for successful fusion is adequately packing the disc space with bone graft, which promotes adequate bone graft-endplate contact. Even though the disc space is typically pre-filled with bone graft prior to cage expansion, an additional void is created when the cage gets expanded. By using the post expansion backfilling technique, in which the bone graft can be pushed through the inserter into the implant and disc space, this void created by the expansion of the device can be filled to create a more homogenous bone environment for spinal fusion to occur."
The implant itself is made from a medical grade titanium alloy, one of the most commonly used titanium alloys, and is currently used in a variety of different medical applications. The company recently conducted an anatomic lab study using the device and found that the implant saved significant procedure time during disc removal, cage implantation, and screw placement when compared to a control group of current market product offerings. Tomer believes these results will help pave the way toward more minimally invasive treatments for patients suffering from degenerative disc disease.
"By 2020, it is estimated that half of all spinal fusion procedures will be performed using a minimally invasive approach," Tomer said. "While it has a steep learning curve, minimally invasive spine surgery has been associated with reducing complications, blood loss, muscular damage, and pain — all with a faster recovery for patients when compared to conventional open spine surgery. With the launch of the CONCORDE LIFT implant, DePuy Synthes is demonstrating our commitment to innovative offerings that reduce surgical complexity, improve patient outcomes, and potentially lower the cost to deliver quality patient care."
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