How serious is degenerative disc disease in the neck?

How serious is degenerative disc disease in the neck?

Cervical disc disease goes beyond just a pain in the neck, though. A degenerative process can cause radiating pain, as well as numbness and weakness in your shoulders, arm, and hand. That discomfort and loss of mobility can have a major impact on your career, family, and quality of life.

What can be done for degenerative disc disease in the neck?

For neck pain stemming from cervical degenerative disc disease, a doctor will typically recommend one or a combination of the following treatment options:

• Rest or lifestyle modification.
• Pain management with medication or injections.
• Ice and/or heat therapy.

What is the prognosis for severe degenerative disc disease?

Outlook / Prognosis Many people use nonsurgical and at-home treatments to manage pain long-term. If you have mild to moderate back pain, you will need to continue treatment to keep the pain at bay. Most people who have surgery for degenerative disk disease experience long-term pain relief.

What can be done for severe disc degeneration?

Physical therapy can help stretch and strengthen the right muscles to help the back heal and reduce the frequency of painful flare-ups. Lifestyle modifications, such as changing your posture, losing weight or giving up smoking, can sometimes help reduce stress on the damaged disc and slow down further degeneration.

What is the best treatment for severe degenerative disc disease?

Bed rest, or reduced activity, for the first 1 to 2 days after onset of severe pain, combined with anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, and ice and/or heat therapy. Prescription muscle relaxant medications, as needed, for up to 1 week. Gentle stretching and aerobic exercise, for at least 3 times a week.

Should I have surgery for degenerative disc?

Surgical treatment is an option in cases of severe, debilitating lumbar degenerative disc disease, and is usually only recommended after at least 6 months of nonsurgical treatment. Most cases of degenerative disc disease can be managed using nonsurgical methods, and do not require surgery for effective pain relief.

Who is a good candidate for cervical disc replacement?

Adults between the ages of 18 and 60 with symptomatic cervical disc disease who have failed to experience improvement after six months of non-operative care (physical therapy, pain medications, and possibly injections).

What happens after c6/c7 surgery?

After surgery, you can expect your neck to feel stiff and sore. This should improve in the weeks after surgery. You may have trouble sitting or standing in one position for very long and may need pain medicine in the weeks after your surgery. You may need to wear a neck brace for a while.