Disc Degeneration

What is Disc Degeneration (Degenerative Disc Disease)?

Spinal discs consist of two main components: a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) and a tough outer ring (annulus fibrosus). As we age, these discs lose water content, become less flexible, and decrease in height. These changes can compromise spinal stability and cause pressure on surrounding tissues and nerves.

Causes and Risk Factors of Disc Degeneration

Several factors contribute to the development of disc degeneration:

• Aging: The most significant risk factor. Discs naturally begin losing water content after age 30.
• Genetic predisposition: Those with family history may experience earlier and more severe degeneration.
• Physical strain: Heavy lifting, repetitive movements, and prolonged sitting.
• Smoking: Reduces blood flow to discs, accelerating degeneration.
• Obesity: Extra weight places additional stress on the spine.
• Trauma: Previous accidents or sports injuries.

Symptoms and Signs

Disc degeneration may not always cause symptoms. However, when it progresses, the following complaints may arise:

• Chronic back or neck pain: Usually felt as a dull, persistent ache.
• Pain with movement: Bending, standing up, or sitting for long periods may increase pain.
• Radiating pain: Pain may spread to legs or arms when nerve roots are affected.
• Numbness and tingling: Particularly in the legs or arms.
• Muscle weakness: May occur in advanced cases.
• Morning stiffness: Difficulty moving after waking up.

Diagnostic Methods

Proper diagnosis of disc degeneration requires comprehensive evaluation:

• Physical examination: Range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength are assessed.
• MRI imaging: Shows disc structure, water content, and nerve compression in detail.
• X-ray: Reveals disc height loss and bone changes.
• CT scan: Examines bone structure changes in detail.
• Discography: Used in special cases to identify the source of pain.

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Most patients can be treated with non-surgical methods:

• Physical therapy: Muscle strengthening and flexibility exercises.
• Medication: Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Epidural injections: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Lifestyle modifications: Weight control, ergonomic adjustments.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical options are considered for patients who do not respond to conservative treatment:

• Endoscopic discectomy: Minimally invasive removal of herniated disc material.
• Disc replacement: Replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one.
• Spinal fusion: Fusing vertebrae together in advanced cases.

Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's Approach

Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk prefers minimally invasive techniques for treating disc degeneration. With over 25 years of experience and thousands of successful surgeries, he creates personalized treatment plans for each patient.

Thanks to his expertise in endoscopic spine surgery, patients are treated with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery times. Special coordination services are provided for international patients.

Recovery Process

Recovery time varies depending on the treatment method:

• Conservative treatment: From several weeks to several months.
• Endoscopic surgery: Most patients are discharged the same day or next day. Normal activities can be resumed within 2-4 weeks.
• Open surgery: Hospital stay 2-5 days, full recovery 3-6 months.

Prevention and Quality of Life

To slow the progression of disc degeneration:

• Exercise regularly, especially swimming and walking.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Do not smoke.
• Practice proper sitting and lifting techniques.
• Create an ergonomic work environment.