Back pain is a common condition caused by several factors, including pinched nerves and degenerated discs. Pinched nerves occur when there is pressure on a nerve in the spine, while degenerated discs are caused by the gradual breakdown of the discs that cushion the vertebrae. While both conditions can lead to back pain, they are fundamentally different and require different treatment approaches. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between pinched nerves and degenerated discs, including the symptoms and causes of each. By understanding the underlying cause of your back pain, you can work with your healthcare provider to develop a targeted treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you find relief.

Understanding Pinched Nerves

A pinched nerve occurs when there is pressure on a nerve as it exits the spinal column. Various factors, including herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis, can cause this pressure. When a nerve is pinched, it can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. In the case of a pinched nerve in the back, you may experience pain that radiates down your legs, often referred to as sciatica.

Understanding Degenerated Discs

Degenerated discs occur when the cushioning between the vertebrae in your spine begins to wear down over time. As the discs degenerate, they can no longer provide the support and cushioning they once did, leading to back pain. Degenerated discs can also cause spinal stenosis, a spinal canal narrowing that can pressure the nerves in your back.

Symptoms of Pinched Nerves

The symptoms of a pinched nerve in the back can vary depending on the location and severity of the compression. Some common symptoms include:

Pain that radiates down your legs often referred to as sciatica
Numbness or tingling in the affected area
Muscle weakness
Sharp or burning pain in the back

Symptoms of Degenerated Discs

The symptoms of degenerated discs can also vary depending on the location and severity of the degeneration. Some common symptoms include:

Pain that gets worse when sitting or bending forward
Stiffness or aching in the back
Pain that radiates down your legs
Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

Differences between Pinched Nerves and Degenerated Discs

While both pinched nerves and degenerated discs can cause back pain, there are some key differences between the two conditions.

Causes
Pinched nerves are usually engendered by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis, whereas degenerated discs emanate from the natural deterioration that takes place with aging.

Symptoms
Pinched nerves can spawn pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area, while degenerated discs typically cause pain, stiffness, or aching in the back.

Treatment
The treatment for pinched nerves and degenerated discs can also differ. Pinched nerves may be treated with physical therapy, medications, or in severe cases, surgery. Degenerated discs can be managed with physical therapy, pain medication, and lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and quitting smoking. Surgery may be recommended to remove the damaged disc and replace it with an artificial one.

Orthocure provides advanced treatment options for individuals experiencing neck pain in Gurgaon. Through a holistic approach to healthcare, our team addresses patients’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being, using state-of-the-art medical facilities and equipment to facilitate recovery and restore normal function. You can easily find a nearby Orthocure clinic by clicking on this link: https://orthocure.co.in/locations/.