How serious is disc desiccation?
In rare cases, the desiccation is so severe that a fusion operation is recommended to help limit movement at the source of the disc height loss. Patients rarely need this level of medical intervention, especially when the condition is caught in its early stages.
Does disc desiccation require surgery?
Surgery may be necessary if these measures do not work. There are many different ways that surgery can help with a desiccated disc. Possible procedures may include: Fusion: The surgeon will join together the vertebrae surrounding the desiccated disc.
Can you reverse disc desiccation?
While the condition cannot be fully reversed, efforts can be made to control its progression and promote some regeneration. Treating degenerative disc disease involves controlling its progression. Depending on the approach, you can either treat it as a condition, or address its actual cause.
Does a desiccated disc cause pain?
The spinal canal has limited space, which is inadequate for the spinal nerve and the displaced herniated disc fragment. Due to this displacement, the disc presses on spinal nerves, often producing pain, which may be severe. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine.
What is the treatment for disc desiccation?
One type, called spinal fusion surgery, involves permanently joining two vertebrae. This can help to stabilize your spine and prevent movements that cause pain. Other options include disc replacement or adding another kind of spacer between your vertebrae.
How do you rehydrate a desiccated disc?
Imbibition is a process of water being drawn into tissue as pressure is decreased. This is why when you lay down or sleep at night, the discs will rehydrate. What’s even better is this process of imbibition can be increased even further and have more lasting results when ELDOA exercises are performed.
How do you treat a desiccated disc?
How is it treated?
- Medication. Pain relievers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain.
- Massage therapy. Relaxing the muscles near the affected vertebrae can help relieve painful pressure.
- Physical therapy.
- Spinal injections.
How do you rehydrate intervertebral discs?
Follow these practices to help your body regularly replenish and fortify the discs in your spine so that your back remains healthy.
- Eat fruits and vegetables, because they also contain water.
- Check your urine.
- Keep your intake to 30 to 50 ounces or 1 to 1.5 liters each day.
- Gradually drink water throughout the day.