Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) Doctor in Westchester County

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a term used to describe a natural change in your spinal discs as you get older. Your spinal discs are small, flexible, round discs that are found between each of the bones in your spine. They allow your back to twist, bend, and move flexibly without the bones rubbing against each other. When you get older, the discs lose some of their flexibility and can break. This leads to chronic back pain and must be treated by an orthopedic specialist. Our doctors at Specialty Orthopaedics have years of experience managing DDD and helping our patients lead a pain-free lifestyle.

What causes degenerative disc disease?

DDD is caused by changes that occur in your spinal discs that happens as you get older. These include:

  • Spinal discs losing fluid
  • Spinal discs cracking
  • Spinal discs ripping

What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?

Visit a doctor who specializes in spinal disc disease at Specialty Orthopaedics if you are experiencing any of these conditions:

  • Back pain that increases when:
    • Bending over
    • Reaching up
    • Twisting
    • Participating in sports
  • Limited range of motion in your back
  • Chronic back pain that doesn’t go away in time

How is degenerative disc disease diagnosed?

At Specialty Orthopaedics, we have extensive experience providing evidence-based diagnosis and treatment for DDD. When you arrive for your initial assessment, we’ll talk with you about your current symptoms, concerns, past medical problems, and any other pertinent information about your health. We will conduct a physical exam of your spine and use imaging tests to rule out other spinal conditions before making a diagnosis of DDD.

How is degenerative disc disease treated?

At Specialty Orthopaedics, our doctors are committed to providing our patients with access to both traditional treatment options as well as innovative surgical procedures to treat problems associated with DDD. When your DDD is mild and only causes minor discomfort, we always approach your treatment with conservative options, including:

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Avoiding certain activities
  • Physical therapy
  • Exercise therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Pain medication

When DDD causes other spinal problems, such as a herniated disc, you might be a good candidate for a spinal procedure. Depending on your condition, we may recommend:

If you are experiencing symptoms of degenerative disc disease, visit Specialty Orthopaedics. Our New York orthopedic practice is home to a team of fellowship-trained orthopedists in a variety of orthopedic specialty areas. We offer comprehensive treatment for musculoskeletal disorders in a caring and responsive clinical atmosphere. Give us a call at 914.686.0111 or fill out the form on this page to schedule your appointment today.

Dr. Brotea

Dr. Cristian Brotea

Spine & Scoliosis Specialist

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