What it is
Degenerative disc disease refers to the gradual, age-related loss of disc height and hydration, which can alter the mechanics of the spine and, in some people, become a source of chronic back pain.
Symptoms
- Chronic lower back pain, often worse with prolonged sitting or standing
- Pain that improves with movement or changing position
- Occasional episodes of acute pain flare-ups
- Stiffness, particularly in the morning
Causes
- Normal age-related disc wear
- Repetitive mechanical loading
- Smoking, which accelerates disc degeneration
- Genetic factors
Diagnosis
MRI is used to assess disc height, hydration and any associated degenerative changes, though imaging findings are correlated carefully with the patient's actual symptoms, since disc degeneration is common even in people without pain.
MRI findings
MRI typically shows reduced disc height and signal, sometimes with associated endplate changes, though the correlation between imaging findings and pain severity is variable.
Non-surgical treatment
- Core-strengthening physiotherapy
- Weight management and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication for flare-ups
- Facet or disc-targeted injections in selected cases
Considering this for your case?
Send your MRI or CT for a specialist opinion before deciding on treatment.
When surgery may be considered
Surgery is considered only in a small subset of patients with disabling, imaging-confirmed single-level disease that has not responded to a sustained course of conservative treatment.
Surgical options
- Lumbar fusion (TLIF/PLIF/MIS-TLIF) in carefully selected cases
Recovery
Non-surgical management is the primary pathway for most patients; when fusion surgery is performed, recovery is typically measured in months, with a structured rehabilitation programme.
Risks
- Adjacent segment degeneration after fusion
- Non-union of the fusion
- Persistent pain despite surgery
Questions to ask your surgeon
- Is surgery necessary now, or can it reasonably wait?
- What non-surgical options are appropriate for my case?
- What are the realistic risks and recovery timeline for me specifically?
Indicative treatment cost
Costs vary by procedure and case complexity. See the spine surgery cost page for indicative planning ranges.
Frequently asked questions
No. Most cases are managed with non-surgical treatment first. Surgery is discussed only when appropriate criteria are met, as outlined above.
MRI is used to assess disc height, hydration and any associated degenerative changes, though imaging findings are correlated carefully with the patient's actual symptoms, since disc degeneration is common even in people without pain.
Recent MRI or CT images and reports, a summary of symptoms and duration, and details of any treatment already tried.