Rediscover comfortable movement and explore personalized options for disc-related back pain at our Englewood location.
New Jersey Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in New Jersey
Degenerative disc disease is often misunderstood as an actual “disease,” when it is really just a term describing changes in the spine's discs that occur due to daily wear, tear, or age. Trauma or repetitive stress can speed up these degenerative processes, which most frequently affect the lower back. When a disc deteriorates, it loses the cushioning it provides between vertebrae, potentially leading to discomfort, reduced mobility, or nerve compression.
We encourage you to connect with our Englewood office to learn how these changes might be addressed through a variety of conservative or surgical approaches.
Causes
There are a couple of primary factors that can lead to the development of degenerative disc disease.
Age
As the body matures, spinal discs lose water content, leading to diminished cushioning between vertebrae. This collapse can strain surrounding tissues.
Injury
Repetitive or sudden spinal stress may injure the disc, hastening the degeneration process.
Treatment
Conservative measures can often provide relief for mild degenerative disc discomfort. Rest, activity modification, and physical therapy may help manage short-term pain, while injections or anti-inflammatory medications can address inflammation. For those whose condition causes significant discomfort or disability, Dr. Stieber can explore surgical options that may offer more definitive relief. Diagnostic tools such as MRIs, discography, and CT scans help determine whether a procedure is the right path forward.
Common Procedures
There are several surgical procedures that can often provide degenerative disc disease patients with substantial relief:
- Minimally Invasive Interbody Fusion: Fuses the vertebrae situated above and below the compromised disc space to stabilize the spine.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: Removes part or all of the damaged disc and replaces it with a prosthetic designed to maintain spinal mobility.
- Laminotomy or Laminectomy: Creates more space around nerve roots by removing or reshaping a portion of the vertebral bone.
Why Choose Dr. Stieber for Degenerative Disc Disease?
Dr. Jonathan Stieber has nearly two decades of expertise in orthopedic spine surgery, distinguishing himself as a top provider in New York and beyond. His dedication to minimally invasive methods, combined with extensive training and academic involvement, allows him to craft a care plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient. Recognized by Castle Connolly and New York Magazine, Dr. Stieber brings an unwavering commitment to relieving pain and restoring function.
We invite you to reach out to our Englewood team for a personalized evaluation and to learn how we can help you regain comfort and ease of movement.