Reasons Why You Might Need Disc Replacement

Reasons Why You Might Need Disc Replacement

The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and allow you to move your body. In between each vertebra (except for the last one) is a disc that cushions the vertebrae, keeps them from rubbing together, and provides stability to the spine. Without discs, there would be very little space in your spine for nerves, blood vessels and other important things. Here are some of the reasons why you might require surgery to replace a disc in your spine

Degenerative disc disease

Discs can be infected with bacteria causing an inflammatory response, causing the disc to swell. Inflammation causes pain, stiffness and weakness. If a disc cannot be treated with steroid injections or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs), the disc is replaced with a prosthetic device. When a disease is degenerative, it means that it worsens gradually. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is the wearing away of the cartilage and the outer covering of a disc, causing pain to radiate from the lower back down one leg.

DDD is most common in older people as discs lose moisture content with age, making them more brittle and prone to damage. The substitution surgery is done when discs have lost their water content and are therefore not functioning normally. After surgery, the disc was removed and replaced by a metal and plastic device called a “prosthetic disc”. The metal and plastic device sits in your spine like an artificial disc, providing stability to the spine. When compared to natural discs, prosthetic discs are much stronger and more durable. As such they don’t wear or need frequent replacement surgery.

Disc injury

When your back is injured, your spine can be bent to help with the pain. This causes the vertebrae to rub against each other, damaging discs. With the damage done to a disc, you might need a disc replacement surgery in order to help you achieve and maintain a good level of movement in your spine.

Spinal stenosis

Spinal Stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae of your spine become compressed, leading to difficulty in having movement or feeling pain in the lower back and legs. When this happens, pressure is put on the spinal cord and nerves present in your spine. The symptoms get worse if the condition is not treated early on.

When a disc is damaged, injured or worn out, you will need surgery to replace the disc with a prosthetic device. This will prevent further damage to your spine and allow you to recover and lead an active life.

Samuel Grant

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