Degenerative Disc Disease Treated in Louisville, KY

Orthopedic doctor examining woman's painful lower back

A common source of neck and back pain, degenerative disc disease often develops gradually along with the natural aging process. Due to wear and tear sustained over time, the spinal discs—small, rubbery cushions between vertebrae—slowly lose their water content, which makes them stiff, brittle, and less effective as shock absorbers for the spine. Furthermore, as the discs deteriorate, they may bulge, tear, or crack (herniate). They may also lose height and allow the adjacent vertebrae to move closer together, potentially leading to painful bone-on-bone contact and the development of spinal bone spurs.

Degenerative disc disease does not always cause pain or require treatment. In some cases, the condition goes undetected until it is identified in an imaging scan performed for an unrelated reason. However, if inflamed or excess tissue pressures the spinal cord or a nerve root, uncomfortable symptoms may develop. In addition to neck or back pain, some people experience numbness and tingling sensations that radiate down their arms or legs.

How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Treated?

Pain tolerance varies widely among individuals. For those who seek treatment for degenerative disc disease, most spine specialists recommend starting with several weeks of nonsurgical therapy, which may include over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and gentle exercise. This approach can be effective for reducing painful inflammation in the spine and, in some cases, no further treatment is necessary.

To address severe symptoms that do not improve with conservative therapy, a disc replacement may be considered. This surgical procedure involves removing the damaged disc, along with any nearby bone spurs, then inserting a metal or polymer prosthetic in its place.

If you would like to explore your treatment options for degenerative disc disease with a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, request a consultation at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky. After confirming your diagnosis and evaluating your condition, we can help you find the most conservative treatment approach that will be effective for you.

What our patients are saying
Shaun H.
I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.
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Joanna S.
Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.
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Sara G.
Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!
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Juanita S.
The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.
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Erin Z.
This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!
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Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

4130 Dutchman's Lane,
Suite 300,Louisville 40207
(502) 897-1794

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

1425 State St.,
,New Albany 47150
(812) 920-0408

Locations
*MAIN LOCATION
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
4130 Dutchman's Lane
Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40207

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
1425 State St.
New Albany, IN 47150