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What is Discogenic Low Back Pain? by Samantha Kanarek, DO, Reconstructive Orthopedics

The intervertebral disc is a structure that lies between two irritate the adjacent nerve root, resulting in pain. Pain vertebrae in the spine. It has a circular shape with two related to a disc herniation rarely causes low back pain, parts, outer layers of fibrous rings (annulus fibrosis) and most often causes buttock and leg pain. On the surrounding a center filled with a gelatinous substance contrary, disc pain from an annular tear tends to cause (nucleus pulposus). The disc is designed to promote low back pain that does not radiate to the buttock or leg. normal motion of the spine and provide cushioning. The pain is vague and difficult to localize. The pain tends Younger people tend to have more robust discs. As we to be worse with sitting, bending over to put on your shoes age, the discs can dry out and wear down, resulting in and socks, and at times may be worse with activities that decreased disc height and possible bulges. Changes in increase intra-abdominal pressure (laughing, coughing, disc height and bulges do not necessarily cause pain, but sneezing, bowel movements). if the outer layers of the disc tear, also known as an If you, a family member, or a friend is suffering from “Disc “annular tear,” this can result in low back pain. Pain,” I recommend evaluation by a physician who specializes in managing conditions of the spine or back. The most important way to diagnosis this condition is by history and physical exam. X-ray and MRI are often not necessary, but may be ordered to evaluate for other possible conditions. The most effective treatment for “Discogenic Low Back Pain” is physical therapy emphasizing on lumbar and core strengthening. The goal is to build up the surrounding muscles to provide “scaffold - ing” that can reduce stress on the disc. Learning proper lifting and postural mechanics is essential. “Discogenic Low Back Pain” is low back pain resulting from Over the years, numerous spinal procedures have been injury to the disc. The annular tear of the disc may or may developed with the goal of reducing pain, including not be visualized on MRI of the spine. The majority of epidural injections, burning the disc, injecting cement patients affected by this are younger to middle aged adults, into the disc, and replacing the disc by fusing the spine. and once older age hits, the disc may wear down to the Unfortunately, there is no good evidence that any of these point where it is no longer painful. procedures provide good long-term relief for this type Pain related to a disc tear differs from pain related to a of low back pain. “herniated disc.” A herniated disc results when a portion of Despite the challenges in managing this condition, patients the central gelatinous material protrudes or extrudes out can still be treated effectively and maintain a high level of of the outer layers of the disc. This gelatinous material can functioning.

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