Degenerative disc disease (DDD)
Worn spinal disc
Our world-leading spinal specialists treat the pain caused by degenerative disc disease
What is degenerative disc disease?
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease? icon plus
DDD happens when the discs between our vertebrae age over time, losing their flexibility, elasticity and ability to absorb shocks. It can affect any part of the spine but often starts in the areas of the spine we use the most — the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). DDD can be associated with a dull, continuous pain in the back, or even episodic severe pain lasting a few days to a few weeks.
Other symptoms include:
- Increased pain when you move
- Feeling as though your spine isn't supporting you
- Sharp pain in the shoulder, arm or hand or the hips, buttocks or leg
- Pain when standing too long - muscle spasms.
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How is DDD diagnosed icon plus
There are a number of ways to diagnose degenerative disc disease.
- Physical and subjective examination: your doctor will examine your spine in the first instance and discuss the types of pain you’ve been having.
- MRI scan: this displays the soft tissues in your spine and can highlight a bulging or worn disc. It can confirm a formal diagnosis of degenerative disc disease in the neck or lower back and help when planning corrective surgery.
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Potential treatment options icon plus
There are a number of ways to diagnose degenerative disc disease.
- Physical and subjective examination: your doctor will examine your spine in the first instance and discuss the types of pain you’ve been having.
- MRI scan: this displays the soft tissues in your spine and can highlight a bulging or worn disc. It can confirm a formal diagnosis of degenerative disc disease in the neck or lower back and help when planning corrective surgery
Our spinal consultants
Our locations
From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional back care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital Spinal Unit
South Building, Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344