Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in New Jersey
The Jey Institute evaluates and treats patients with degenerative disc disease in New Jersey who experience chronic back pain, neck pain, stiffness, and other symptoms related to changes in the spinal discs.
Definition
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that occurs as the spinal discs wear down and gradually lose water content, height, and structural integrity. These discs sit between the vertebrae and act as cushions that absorb shock, distribute forces across the spine, and help maintain spacing between the bones during movement.
As discs become thinner and less flexible, they become less effective at absorbing stress placed on the spine. This can affect how the spine moves and functions and, in some cases, may contribute to problems involving the discs, nearby joints, or surrounding nerves.
Despite its name, DDD is not actually a disease. It is a common age-related condition that develops over many years and is frequently identified on imaging studies as people get older.
Types of
Degenerative Disc Disease
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Cervical degenerative disc disease occurs in the discs of the neck. Because the cervical spine supports head movement throughout the day, degeneration in this region may cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, or symptoms that travel into the shoulders, arms, or hands due to nerve irritation.
Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Lumbar degenerative disc disease affects the discs in the lower back and is the most common form of the condition. The lumbar spine absorbs much of the body's weight and mechanical stress during everyday movement, making these discs particularly vulnerable to wear. Patients may experience lower back pain, stiffness, or discomfort that radiates into the buttocks, legs, or feet when nerve compression develops.
Multi-level Degenerative Disc Disease
Multilevel degenerative disc disease involves more than one spinal level or region. This may include multiple discs in the neck, lower back, or both areas simultaneously.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease affects people differently. Some experience occasional flare-ups separated by long periods with few symptoms, while others deal with ongoing pain and stiffness on a more regular basis.
Activities that increase pressure on the affected disc, such as prolonged sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting, often trigger symptoms. Standing, walking, or changing positions may provide temporary relief.
- Chronic neck pain or lower back pain
- Stiffness, especially after waking up or remaining in one position for an extended period
- Pain, numbness, or tingling that extends into an arm or leg
- Periodic flare-ups that last for days or weeks
- Reduced flexibility or range of motion
What are the stages of Degenerative Disk Disease?
01
Dysfunction
02
Dehydration
03
Stabilization
04
Collapse
Causes
What causes Degenerative Disc Disease?
Disc degeneration is a normal part of aging, and nearly everyone develops some degree of wear within the spinal discs over time.
However, age is not the only factor involved. Certain habits, activities, and life experiences can place additional stress on the spine and influence how quickly these changes occur, as well as whether they eventually lead to symptoms.
Common risk factors include:
Dr. J explained everything in a simplified way that made me very comfortable, and his staff went above and beyond.
When to reach out
When should you see a spine specialist for Degenerative Disc Disease?
Many patients seek evaluation when pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility becomes harder to manage and begins interfering with work, exercise, sleep, travel, or other aspects of daily life. Others pursue treatment after symptoms persist despite rest, activity modification, or other conservative measures.
Pain that extends into an arm or leg, along with numbness, tingling, or weakness, may suggest that nearby nerves have become irritated or compressed. A spine evaluation can help identify the source of these symptoms and determine which treatment options may be appropriate.
Risks of untreated Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease does not progress at the same rate in every patient, but symptoms may become more pronounced if degenerative changes continue affecting the spine.
Persistent neck pain, back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility may make everyday movement less comfortable and limit a person’s ability to stay active. Some patients find that activities they once performed with ease become much more difficult because of pain or limited movement.
As disc degeneration advances, it may result in conditions such as disc herniation, spinal stenosis, nerve compression, or spinal instability. When nearby nerves become involved, symptoms may extend into the arms or legs and include numbness, tingling, or weakness.
How is Degenerative Disc Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosing degenerative disc disease requires more than imaging alone. Disc changes become increasingly common with age, and many adults have visible degeneration on MRI or X-rays without experiencing pain or other symptoms. For this reason, diagnosis involves correlating imaging findings with a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and physical examination.
At the Jey Institute, we evaluate the full clinical picture to determine whether disc degeneration is responsible for a patient’s pain and whether other spinal structures may also be involved.
Diagnosis may include:
- Review of medical history, symptoms, and pain patterns
- Physical examination to assess mobility, strength, reflexes, and signs of nerve involvement
- MRI scans to evaluate disc hydration, disc height loss, and changes affecting nearby nerves
- X-rays to examine spinal alignment and disc space narrowing
- Discography in selected cases when additional diagnostic information is needed
Our treatment approach for Degenerative Disc Disease
01
Conservative care
02
Targeted interventions
03
Surgical options
Non-surgical treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease
Not everyone with degenerative disc disease requires surgery. Many patients manage their symptoms successfully with conservative treatment aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining overall function.
Physical therapy is often one of the first treatments we recommend. Guided exercises can help strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce stress on the affected discs. Depending on a patient’s symptoms, treatment may also include medications, spinal injections, pain management strategies, acupuncture, or supportive bracing.
While these approaches do not reverse disc degeneration, they may help control symptoms and allow patients to remain active without surgery.
When is surgery needed for Degenerative Disc Disease?
Surgery is typically considered only when symptoms continue limiting quality of life despite appropriate conservative treatment.
We may recommend surgery when persistent pain, nerve-related symptoms, or functional limitations do not respond to non-surgical care or when disc degeneration contributes to nerve compression or spinal instability.
Common procedures used to treat Degenerative Disc Disease
Lumbar Microdiscectomy / Laminectomy
Considering a lumbar microdisectomy or laminectomy in New Jersey? Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Considering an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in New Jersey? Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
Minimally-Invasive Lumbar Fusion
Considering minimally invasive lumbar fusion in New Jersey? Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
Getting Back to life
Recovery after Degenerative Disc Disease surgery
Recovery time varies based on the procedure performed, the condition of the spine before treatment, and the patient’s overall health. Many patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures return home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
Walking typically begins shortly after surgery, and most patients gradually increase their activity as healing progresses. Some people return to light daily activities within a few weeks, while more physically demanding activities may require an additional recovery period.
Physical therapy may be recommended after surgery to help restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor healing, assess progress, and guide patients as they return to normal activities.
Who is a candidate for Degenerative Disc Disease treatment?
Patients with persistent symptoms related to degenerative disc disease may benefit from treatment when pain, stiffness, mobility limitations, or nerve-related symptoms continue despite appropriate conservative care.
Recommendations vary depending on symptom severity, imaging findings, response to conservative care, and the impact symptoms have on daily activities.
Candidates for degenerative disc disease treatment may include:
- Patients with persistent symptoms despite conservative care
- Individuals whose imaging findings correlate with their symptoms and physical examination
- Patients experiencing chronic neck pain, back pain, stiffness, or nerve-related symptoms
- Individuals considering surgical options after non-surgical treatments fail to provide adequate relief
- Anyone seeking an expert evaluation before deciding on a treatment plan
Dr. Shiveindra Jeyamohan
Lead Spinal Neurosurgeon
Why choose the Jey Institute for your Degenerative Disc Disease treatment?
Degenerative disc disease can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and limitations that affect routine and overall function.
At the Jey Institute, we develop individualized treatment plans designed to reduce pain, improve function, and help patients return to the activities that matter most to them.
Our team uses advanced minimally invasive and microscopic surgical techniques when surgery is necessary, while also helping patients explore appropriate non-surgical treatment options whenever possible.
- 2,200+ Patients served
- 650+ Surgeries performed
Frequently asked questions about Degenerative Disc Disease
Are all fusions the same?
No. Although all fusion procedures aim to join two vertebrae together, different surgical approaches have distinct advantages and limitations. Choosing the most appropriate technique depends on the patient’s anatomy, symptoms, and the underlying spinal condition.
Can exercise help degenerative disc disease?
Yes. Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for degenerative disc disease. Strengthening the muscles that support the spine helps improve stability, reduce stress on the discs, and decrease the likelihood of developing painful symptoms. This is one reason physical therapy is often recommended as a first-line treatment.
Can I avoid surgery and still improve my DDD symptoms?
Yes. Most patients with degenerative disc disease never require surgery. Physical therapy, exercise, medications, injections, and other conservative treatments are often highly effective at controlling symptoms.
Does degenerative disc disease always cause pain?
No. Many people have degenerative disc disease without experiencing symptoms. In some cases, disc degeneration is discovered incidentally when imaging is performed for an unrelated reason.
How common is degenerative disk disease?
Degenerative disc disease is extremely common. In fact, most adults will develop some degree of disc degeneration as they age. Many people never experience symptoms, while others develop pain, stiffness, or nerve-related symptoms that eventually require treatment.
How is degenerative disc disease different from a disc herniation?
Degenerative disc disease occurs when a disc gradually loses hydration, height, and structural integrity over time. A disc herniation happens when part of a disc pushes out of place. A person can have both conditions at the same time, but they are not the same thing.
Is disc replacement better than fusion?
Neither procedure is universally better. For carefully selected patients, artificial disc replacement can provide results comparable to fusion while preserving motion at the treated level. The most appropriate option depends on the condition of the disc, spinal alignment, and overall stability of the spine.
Is fusion necessary for DDD?
No. A fusion is only one of several treatment options. Some patients improve with non-surgical care, while others may only require a decompression procedure when symptoms result from nerve compression. Fusion is generally considered when instability, deformity, or significant disc-related pain is present.
What can I do at home to manage symptoms?
Regular exercise, core strengthening, weight management, and other healthy lifestyle habits can help support the spine and reduce symptoms. Avoiding smoking and remaining physically active are also important for long-term spinal health.
Will degenerative disc disease keep getting worse?
Disc degeneration is generally progressive. If symptoms are present and left untreated, pain, stiffness, and functional limitations may worsen over time. Early treatment can often help manage symptoms and maintain activity levels.
Locations throughout New Jersey
Clifton, NJ
735 Clifton Avenue
Clifton NJ 07013
East Brunswick, NJ
180 Tices Lane
East Brunswick NJ 08816
Suite 106
Little Silver, NJ
200 White Road,
Little Silver, NJ 07739
Suite 111
West Orange, NJ
414 Eagle Rock Ave,
West Orange, NJ 07052
Suite 304
Hamilton, NJ
311 Whitehorse Ave.,
Hamilton Township, NJ
08610
Dover, NJ
50 Nelson St.
Dover NJ 07801
Real reviews from our past patients
“Dr. J was attentive, listened to me and showed that he truly cared about my problems. He explained in details and offered me expert opinions. I love that he treats patients as individual and truly listens.”
Bernice
“After being unhappy with my spine surgeon, I found Dr. J. He explained exactly what was wrong with me, made a game plan, and had his team help out in scheduling. Once he found where the problem was, he got me scheduled, did excellent work, and I was home in a couple days. The scar is WAY SMALLER than my original surgery, which wasn’t even as big! He really is a minimally invasive expert and my recovery was way faster!”
Eddie
“I’ve had 5 different operations on my back in the last decade. Dr. J did number 6. His scar was the smallest, least amount of pain, and for the first time after any surgery I went home the same day. Maybe I’m just getting used to surgery lol!”
Steve W.
“No doubt in my mind Dr. Jeyamohan saved my life.”
Steven C.
“Thank You from the bottom of my heart for getting my active lifestyle back- I’m so happy with the outcome- thank u for being honest about the pain I would experience in the first month of recovery- your bedside manner in the hospital was excellent – your PA Andrea was amazing as well- I would recommend Evergreen Health to everyone and my team of docs was super- Thank U Dr J, Dr Nora, and Dr Ting!! Feels amazing to be standing tall with great posture everyday I’m getting stronger”
Michelle G.
“Kind and thorough. Top quality and felt safe throughout.”
Verified Patient
“Took the time to explain my pictures and what was wrong with me, and gave me many different options. Answered every single one of my questions and even a few over the phone. Went home the same day and on my way to a full recovery! Office is clean, bright, and everyone was super friendly and helpful! Andrea his assistant has been a treasure!”
Verified Patient
“Incredibly thorough, took his time to explain and answer all my questions. Gave me plenty of options. I probably visited with him three or four times before committing to surgery, never once did he rush me. Saw me every day in the hospital, walked with me. I’m so thankful I had the surgery with him. I saw two other spine surgeons who didn’t even want to take on such a complicated operation but Dr. J did incredible work and I’m back to walking on my own! I don’t even need a cane anymore”
Verified Patient
“First, the office was not good. Getting an appointment, scheduling, paperwork, was a nightmare. But once I got in to see Dr. J, it was smooth sailing! He got me the tests I needed, talked to me about treatment options, and helped me set up an injection. We talked about different surgeries, got me scheduled, did great work, and made sure I had follow-up appointments. I’m back to the farm ahead of schedule and back to work. If only I could have got in to see him sooner.”
Verified Patient
“I have to be honest here and own up. I saw three different spine surgeons and was worried “Dr. Jey” as everyone calls him was too young. I went with someone else who fused three levels in my back. I did horribly with lots of complications. After getting over all my issues, I swallowed my pride and went back to Dr. Jey. He never made me feel bad and graciously took a look at everything, ordered more tests, and showed me what was going on. Bad news, he says he couldn’t undo the fusion. Worse news, it’s now an even bigger operation to fix, and he was honest and said the best we can do is try to get me…”
Verified Patient
“My experience was excellent. Dr J is very knowledgeable explained everything in a simplified way that made me very comfortable. His staff went above and beyond answer any question I had No matter what the question was. I can’t thank Dr J and his staff enough For helping me get through this spine Injury.”
Jim D.
“I am a 45 year old male who led an active lifestyle when a back injury changed my life. I went from working and being active with my 4 children to suddenly I couldn’t make any movement without excruciating pain. The type of pain I can’t even explain in words. I went to see Dr. Jeyamohan on the referral of my sister who is a physician as well. When I walked into the office the team had already looked at my MRI and explained to me in honest terms that we had an emergency situation on our hands and that delaying surgery was simply not an option. Dr. Jeyamohan Made calls and got me scheduled for emergency back surgery right…”
Eric F.