Yes, degenerative disc disease (DDD), especially in the lower back (lumbar/sacral) or neck (cervical), can absolutely cause bladder problems like urinary retention, incontinence, or frequency by compressing spinal nerves that control bladder function, with severe cases potentially leading to a medical emergency called Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES). DDD affects nerves, reducing bladder sensitivity and control, leading to issues such as difficulty starting urination, incomplete emptying, or leakage, and requires prompt medical attention if severe.
Possible symptoms of stage 4 degenerative disc disease include:
Part of this response is inflammation, which causes pain and swelling in soft tissues in the spine, such as nerves. Treating the inflammation with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may alleviate pain and swelling. The most common NSAIDs are ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin.
The new substance, a hyaluronic acid granular hydrogel, is made of many microparticles that can be injected easily into the discs between vertebrae to provide cushioning and shock absorption, which could help eliminate back pain in people with degenerative disc disease.
If diagnostic tests indicate that changes in the discs cause vertebrae to move out of place or put pressure on nearby nerves, doctors may recommend surgery, which can include a minimally invasive approach. Physical therapy, acupuncture, and medication may relieve discomfort caused by degenerative disc disease.
A CT scan may be able to better demonstrate osteophytes as well as endplate sclerosis and vacuum disc sign, all related to findings of degenerative disc disease [4]. A CT scan is performed in a non-weight-bearing position and is of limited use to assess any dynamic instability in the lumbar spine.
Intradiscal Electrothermal Therapy (IDET)
IDET is another simple option for treating degenerative disc disease. In this procedure, a thin tube is placed into the damaged disc. Heat is sent through the tube to make the disc stronger and reduce nerve pain, which can help you feel better.
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications, which reduce inflammation around nerves and the spinal cord. An epidural injection is especially helpful if degenerative disc disease results in a herniated disc or if bone growths develop and press painfully on nerve roots or the spinal cord.
The most common side effect is mild pain and swelling at the injection site that goes away on its own. About 1% of people have a more severe reaction called an injection flare.
While many people can manage a degenerated disc with conservative treatments and lifestyle changes, it's important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen. Severe pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs may indicate nerve involvement and require further evaluation.
As degenerative disc disease can result in pinching of the spinal nerves, several of these medications can be helpful in reducing the symptoms. Two of the more common of these medications are gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica).
1. NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): These medications, like ibuprofen and naproxen, reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate axial pain. Your doctor can prescribe stronger NSAIDs, like meloxicam or diclofenac, if needed.
Typical pain medications to treat degenerative disc may include: These medications, which include ibuprofen and naproxen act as anti-inflammatories and reduce swelling and discomfort. Muscle Relaxants. These – have a mild sedative effect and alleviate pain caused by muscle spasms.
Degenerative disc disease is marked by back pain and difficulty doing everyday tasks, such as picking up something heavy or twisting the spine. If the condition progresses, it can lead to spine or nerve damage, which can cause pain and disruption throughout the body, not just in the back.
If back or neck pain caused by degenerative disc disease doesn't respond to medication or therapeutic injections, NYU Langone doctors may recommend a surgical procedure. Surgeons may remove some or all of a damaged disc, take pressure off a pinched nerve, or eliminate movement between the bones of the spine.
A degenerative disc in the lower back may result in pain or numbness in the back, buttock or leg, difficulty walking and lack of balance or coordination. Occasionally, bowel and bladder control problems may occur with spinal cord stenosis or significant nerve compression.
The #1 mistake making bad knees worse is excessive rest and a sedentary lifestyle, leading to weaker supporting muscles, stiffness, and a vicious cycle of more pain; instead, gentle, consistent movement (like walking, swimming) is crucial to strengthen the joint and improve function, though it must be balanced with avoiding activities that cause sharp pain. Other major errors include ignoring pain signals, carrying excess weight, wearing unsupportive shoes, and poor movement patterns, says Parkside Sports Physiotherapy and Coastal Empire Orthopedics.
Gel shots are typically considered when cortisone injections do not provide any benefit. Benefits of gel shots: Can last up to six months (longer duration compared to cortisone) Can reduce pain and inflammation to improve mobility and function.
Viscosupplementation is re-introduction into the knee to help cushion and lubricate the joint. It is safe for most patients including diabetics. Most Gel injections come in a series of 2-3 injections that are spaced a week apart and can be given every 6 months.
However, in some chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease, the inflammatory cycle works overtime, actually causing damage rather than providing healing protection for your tissues. Corticosteroids help break this cycle to prevent painful symptoms and ongoing damage.
What are the risks of an epidural steroid injection? An epidural steroid injection generally causes no problems. If you do have side effects, they may include: "Steroid flush," or flushing of the face and chest, with warmth and an increase in temperature for several days.
HYDRAFIL®, is a proprietary hydrogel technology that when heated becomes a liquid that can be implanted into the nucleus of an intervertebral disc with a needle. Once it enters the body the gel incorporates with the existing nucleus and cools to form an integrated solid.
With disc replacement, patients might experience nerve damage, spinal cord injury, blood vessel injury that leads to significant blood loss, and anesthesia-related complications however all are extremely rare. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Lanman embraces techniques that protect the nerves and spinal cords of patients.
It may be degenerative disc disease if you notice persistent pain in your lower back, hips, thighs, and buttocks.