Low back pain (LBP) is a widespread health issue that affects a significant portion of the global population. It’s estimated that between 70% and 85% of people will experience LBP at some point in their lives. This takes a toll on individuals’ quality of life and places a substantial financial burden on healthcare and social systems.

LBP is typically described as discomfort, tightness, or stiffness in the back area below the ribcage and the buttocks. It often comes with other symptoms like leg pain (sciatica) and neurological problems in the lower limbs. While there are many potential causes of LBP, one of the most common is intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD).

Intervertebral discs are cushions that sit between the spine’s bones. They’re made up of three main parts: the nucleus pulposus (NP), which is the soft, jelly-like center; the annulus fibrosus, which is the rigid, fibrous outer ring; and the cartilage endplates, which are the thin layers of cartilage that connect the discs to the vertebrae. The discs are mostly made of collagen and proteoglycan, which give them unique properties that allow them to absorb shock and provide flexibility to the spine.

Over time, the discs can start to break down and lose their ability to function correctly. This is known as IVDD, and it’s a common condition that can lead to a variety of spinal problems. As the discs degenerate, they become less able to absorb shock and support the spine. This can cause the vertebrae to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Many factors can contribute to the development of IVDD, including aging, genetics, obesity, and certain lifestyle factors like smoking and lack of exercise. The discs lose some water content as we age and become less flexible. This makes them more prone to injury and degeneration. Genetics can also play a role, with some people being more likely to develop IVDD due to inherited factors.

Diagnosis of IVDD typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs, and sometimes diagnostic injections. These injections involve injecting a small amount of anesthetic or contrast dye into the affected area to help pinpoint the pain’s source and determine the damage’s extent.
Treatment for IVDD often starts with conservative measures like physical therapy, exercise, and pain management. Therapeutic injections may sometimes deliver medication directly to the affected area. These injections can include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and newer therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections.

PRP and stem cell injections are examples of orthobiologics, substances derived from the body’s cells and tissues. PRP is made by taking a sample of the patient’s blood, concentrating the platelets (which contain growth factors and other healing compounds), and injecting it back into the damaged area. Stem cell injections involve harvesting stem cells from the patient’s body (usually from bone marrow or fat tissue), processing them, and injecting them into the affected disc. These therapies aim to promote healing and regeneration of the damaged tissue.

While these treatments can be effective for some patients, they’re not always a cure. In severe cases of IVDD, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged disc and fuse the vertebrae or replace the disc with an artificial one. However, surgery is usually seen as a last resort after other treatments have failed.
As research continues into the causes and treatments of IVDD, there is hope for better outcomes for patients with this condition. By understanding the complex relationship between intervertebral discs and low back pain, healthcare providers can develop more targeted and effective treatment plans that address the underlying causes of the problem. If you’re experiencing low back pain, you must talk to your doctor about your options and work together to find the best approach for your needs.

At Columbia Pain Management, we understand the evolving science of pain and provide innovative treatments to help you reclaim your life. If you’re trapped by unrelenting pain, our experts guide you toward healing and fulfillment. Call 503-654-5636 or 541-205-0173 to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life. Let us assist you in taking the first step toward a pain-free life.