Disc Desiccation
Disc desiccation is the dehydration of discs between your vertebrae. Symptoms may include stiffness, weakness, and pinched nerves. Treatment options include medications, injections, and therapy. Disc desiccation is when the inside of discs begin to lose fluid. When a disc is desiccated (dehydrated), the nucleus pulposus becomes like a dried, brittle rubber band instead of a supple, responsive material.
Symptoms of disc desiccation
Disc desiccation may gradually cause discs to flatten when the fluid is excreted. This can increase the pressure on the disc and affect your spinal nerves..
Symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
Pain
Weakness
Tingling sensations
Lower back pain
If your nerves are impacted by disc desiccation, pain may also travel down one or both legs. This could cause difficulty with:
Walking
Reflexes
Strength
Sensations
Bladder and bowel movements
what can cause disc dessication?
Disc desiccation is usually caused by wear and tear on your spine, which happens naturally as you age. However there are many causes linked to disc desiccation, such as:
Ankylosing spondylitis
Spinal stenosis
Malnutrition
Repeated strain on your back, such as from hard labor
Back injury, such as trauma from a car accident, fall, or sports injuries
How is disc desiccation diagnosed?
A member of our Spine team will start with a comprehensive medical examination. Our spine team may also may also conduct neurological tests to assess your sensations, circulation, and bowel and bladder functions. Imaging tests are also typically conducted to view the patient spine and discs. These diagnostic test may include:
X-ray
CT scan
MRI scan
treatment options for disc desiccation
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you how to strengthen the core muscles that support your trunk and take pressure off your back. They can also help you improve your posture and come up with strategies to avoid movements or positions that may trigger symptoms.
Medication: Pain relievers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), can help reduce pain.
Massage therapy: Relaxing the muscles near the affected vertebrae can help relieve painful pressure.
Spinal injections: A corticosteroid injection may help reduce inflammation and pain in your back.
Surgery: Spinal fusion surgery involves permanently joining two vertebrae. This can help to stabilize your spine and prevent movements that cause pain. Surgery may be necessary if your spinal cord or nerve roots are being compressed.