Degenerative Disc Disease Specialist
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Pinnacle Health Chiropractic
Jason Ablett, DC
Chiropractor & Massage Therapist located in Kirkland, WA
Degenerative disc disease means that one or more of the cushioning discs between your vertebrae in your spine start breaking down or become inflamed. This sometimes occurs as a natural part of aging, although you can also be diagnosed with degenerative disc disease if you have an injury or overuse the area. Jason Ablett, DC of Pinnacle Health Chiropractic in Kirkland, Washington, specializes in working with patients who have degenerative disc disease. Whether you already have a diagnosis, or have undiagnosed back pain, make your first appointment online, or call the office today.
Degenerative Disc Disease Q & A
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease generally causes widespread pain, which can vary in intensity. Patients typically describe having:
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Undiagnosed back pain
- Radiating pain
It is important to note that degenerative disc disease is not really a disease, rather it is more of a term that describes a compilation of symptoms revolving around a degenerated disc in your spine. Though your symptoms may worsen as you age, they can also improve if you have a diagnosis and pursue the proper treatments.
How does a doctor diagnose degenerative disc disease?
Dr. Ablett is an established expert when it comes to diagnosing and treating degenerative disc disease. During your initial evaluation, he reviews your entire medical history and finds out information about your symptoms. After gathering some background about your pain, Dr. Ablett performs an examination and in-office tests.
Partnering with Dr. Ablett for your degenerative disc disease treatment gives you a distinct competitive advantage over many other physical therapists because he provides patients with an MRI review. This unique practice allows you and Dr. Ablett to sit down together — whether you have old or new MRI reports — and go through your entire scan thoroughly. Usually this is the final step in confirming degenerative disc disease.
Which treatments are available for degenerative disc disease?
Your degenerative disc treatment plan may include several types of therapies, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Dr. Ablett will likely plan a custom Rehabilitative Exercise and exercise program for you. Exercise helps your body heal while aiding in preventing further issues.
One of the main benefits of exercise — besides building strength — is boosting endorphins. Because endorphins are a natural mood booster and pain reliever, even short, low-intensity exercise can get you feeling better. Your treatment sessions could also include:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Static stretching
- Nutritional counseling
Each time you come into the office for a treatment session, it is likely that Dr. Ablett will have you undergo several different types of treatments, so each appointment may vary from your last. Exercises and therapies are adjusted according to your pain level and progression.
