The majority of individuals suffering pain from degenerative disc disease can manage pain and avoid surgery. Often, the pain associated with this disease doesn’t last longer than 3 months. In approximately 10% of patients, however, the pain surpasses the three-month mark. Not only is the pain unpleasant, it often affects the way they are able to live their daily lives. Luckily, if you are suffering from chronic pain caused by degenerative disc disease, there are four steps that you can take to manage your pain and get back to your daily routine.


Step 1: Get Your Pain to a Tolerable Level

The first line of defense for a painful back is home remedies. Try applying heat and cold, or taking over-the-counter medicines to alleviate your pain. If these conservative treatments do not work, it may be necessary to contact a spinal specialist such as Dr. Solomon Kamson of the Spine Institute Northwest. A specialist will be able to prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication, or suggest alternative therapies such as chiropractic manipulation, acupuncture, or massage therapy.

Step 2: Start an Exercise Regimen

It is important to remember that the pain may not go away completely. However, once it has reached a tolerable level, it is important to start a regular exercise regimen. Exercise preserves and strengthens the back, while encouraging the flow of blood, oxygen, and important nutrients to the discs and other parts of the back. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins, which can naturally relieve pain and stress.



There are three types of exercise that individuals suffering chronic pain from degenerative disc disease should participate in—stretching, aerobic conditioning, and strengthening. It is often most effective to alternate strengthening exercises with aerobic conditioning exercises every 30 minutes. This helps to control weight, while maintaining the flexibility and strength of the back. If your pain is too severe for low-impact aerobic exercises, consider water therapy. Stretching is also important to recover from back pain. For best results, take five minutes after waking up and five minutes before going to sleep to stretch each day. Before beginning any exercise regimen, it is important to consult a specialist such as Dr. Kamson—you want to be sure you are performing exercises correctly so that you are helping your back, not potentially furthering your injury.

Step 3: Identify Activities that May Be Causing Pain

As you become more physically active, you may find that certain factors in your life are triggering your back pain. First, be sure that you are sitting and walking with correct posture. You should also sit in chairs with lower back support. Next, take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to increase blood flow to the back. This relieves stress and stiffness. You should also be sure to lift heavy objects properly. Finally, be sure that you are sleeping on a comfortable, supportive mattress at night. If you find that your back pain is making you shy away from your normal activities or have to make significant changes to your routine, it may be time to take stronger steps toward finding relief. The team at the Spine Institute Northwest can help you explore your options if you are suffering from degenerative disc disease.

Step 4: Keep Your Body Hydrated and Properly Fueled

When you give your spine the proper amount of hydration and nutrients, it is naturally healthier. Similarly, when the discs and spine are properly hydrated, they are more flexible. The proper nutrients can also help the spine to heal. There are several steps that can be taken to ensure proper hydration and nutrition. First, try to eat a well-balanced diet of vitamins and minerals, especially foods with calcium and vitamin D. You should also try to stay hydrated by periodically sipping water throughout the day. Try to avoid excess caffeine consumption, and use of alcohol and nicotine products, which may affect the way the body absorbs nutrients and heals itself.