Degenerative Disk Disease in Cervical Spine:
Degenerative Disk Disease refers to the flattening of disks in the spine. This flattening may lead to surrounding vertebrae colliding and may cause pinched nerves. A damaged disk is the most common  of cervical spine problems. A disk can be damaged by a sudden movement or gradually worn down.
This is the most common cause of neck pain.  Symptoms may include stiffness or tingling in the neck and weakness in the arms.
Treatment Options: It may be beneficial to apply ice or heat to the neck.

Degenerative Disk Disease in Lumbar Spine:
A painful lumbar spine (lower back) can be caused from a herniated disk.  A worn disk can be pushed out of place and create pressure on a nerve.  Most injuries happen from a twisting injury in the lower back, such as swinging a golf club. The pain can also be a result of wear and tear of the spine over time.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disk Disease Lumbar Spine include:
A dull tolerable pain that may flare up a few days at a time.
Lower back, hips or leg pain
Pain from excessive bending, lifting or twisting.
Treatment Options:  Medication, chiropractic manipulation, epidural injections or lower back massages.

Degenerative Disk Disease Thoracic Spine:
Thoracic degenerative disc disease is a rare condition due to the natural resistance of the middle and upper back regions to the typical degenerative changes. This is usually part of the aging process. Symptoms include pain from movement in affected spinal regions and chronic middle and upper back pain.

Likely tests: Physical history, X-ray, MRI, or physical examinations may be required.

Treatment options: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, exercise and stretching may aid the pain.  More severe cases may require surgery.

Typical recovery times: Recovery can span from a few days to a few months depending on severity.

For more information visit one of the following sites:
http://www.healthscout.com/ency/68/627/main.html
http://www.herniated-disc-pain.org/thoracic-degenerative-disc-disease.html
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/cervical-degenerative-disc-disease
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/low-back-pain-and-degenerative-disc-disease-treatments

Ask your doctor about a referral to Dr. Masaki Oishi at Neurosurgical Associates, or contact our office at 254-772-6760.