Degenerative Disc Disease
Injuries don’t keep office hours. When its urgent, get diagnosed and recover fast when you go straight to the orthopedic experts with Ortho After Hours.
As premier hip and knee replacement surgeons in Charleston, SC, Dr. Zimlich and Dr. Stem alleviate patient pain and discomfort using innovative techniques and technologies. Concentrating exclusively on knee and hip replacement, the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists operate at the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Surgery Center and area hospitals per patient preference.
Top rated for eight years in a row as Charleston’s Choice for best orthopedic surgeons, countless of satisfied patients walk away with a pain free, natural feeling knee or hip. From custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing to the area’s first and only outpatient surgery center based robotic knee replacement program, patients trust Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists.
Signature services include:
- Custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing
- Same day robotic knee replacement program
- Personalized joint replacement experience
- Dedicated team of nurses, physician assistants, and physical therapists
- Proven outcomes for quick recovery and pain-free lives
Same day appointments are available at one of our convenient North Charleston, Summerville, or Daniel Island locations.
Treatment
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition in which the disc loses support and stability. It is also sometimes called lumbar spondylosis or arthritis. The disc is the cushioning between the vertebral bones. It consists of an outer layer of rings of cartilage (annulus) and an inner layer of gel (nucleus). Healthy discs have a large content of water that acts like a hydraulic cushion.
The name implies that this is a disease. Although it cannot be cured, it can be managed in most cases, like any other disease (such as diabetes or high blood pressure). Treatment options your doctor may recommend:
Medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain medications
- Muscle relaxers
- Steroid pills to reduce inflammation
Medications
To reduce inflammation, either over the counter or prescription NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Spinal Injections
Corticosteroid (cortisone) injections reduce inflammation within the spinal canal and reduce irritation of the nerves. People with mild to moderate DDD can have long-term relief from these injections.
Bracing
To help stabilize the spine in more severe cases.
Physical Therapy
To strengthen the core muscles and back muscles to help stabilize the spine.
Surgery
Surgery is always a last resort, but may be elected in advanced cases or if nerve damage occurs. Options include disc replacement or minimally invasive fusion.
Services
Spine disorders
Spine fusion
Minimally invasive spine surgery
Cervical radiculopathy
Monday - Thursday 5pm to 7pm Saturday 8am to 12pm
No appointment necessary.
Call 843-266-4884 for information.
Causes
Symptoms
Diagnostics
- History and physical examination
- X-rays: Show narrowing of the disc and bone spurs
- MRI or CT scan: May show osteophytes (bone spurs), disc bulging, or annular tears
- Neurologic testing: EMG/nerve conduction testing
Lowcountry Orthopaedics’ Spine Team
Christopher Battista, MD
Spine Surgeon
Don Stovall, Jr, MD
Spine Surgeon
Carey Lennon, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Kylie Smith, FNP
Nurse Practitioner
Hip & Knee Specialists
Fast forward to feeling better with Lowcountry Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine’s board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons that specialize in joint reconstruction and hip and knee surgery.
Same Day Appointments
Same-Day Joint Replacement
The benefits of same-day total hip or knee replacement surgery include fast recovery, lower risk of infection, no risk of hospital-acquired illness, cost reduction, and increased patient satisfaction. Patients interested in same-day joint surgery should schedule an evaluation with Dr. Zimlich to review their medical profile for candidacy.