Is there anyone who has degenerative disc disease or knows someone that does?

Question

I have had degenerative disc desease for several years now and getting worse. Doctor has me on hydrocodine and it never really stops the pain. Is there anyone that is taking or doing something that stops the pain? Don;t know what ese to do, don't want to up the dosage and I am sure my doctor wouldn't either.

Answer 1

My fiance has it and has had a lamenectomy and in January had a fusion operation.He also had an accident so there were other problems but,basically the surgery didn't help much,however he is on some medications that are really helping the pain.He sees a pain management doctor so if ur not,you will need to so that you can receive proper meds.Hydrocodone is very mild and doesn't help pain like that very much.He is on Oxycontin and Roxicodone.He is on a very high does,however.80mgs of Oxycontin 3 times a day and 30mgs of Roxicodone 3 times a day.It's quite alot but smaller doses would probably be beneficial to you.Good luck,I understand as I've seen the pain he has been in.

Answer 2

I also have DDD. Tell your doctor the pain is getting worse. You might also have a disc that has herniated and be pressing against your spinal cord. You should ask your doctor to order you an MRI to make sure nothing else is going on. Good Luck!!

Answer 3

I have been taking Tylenol3 and the anti inflammatory drug naproxin for years for this condition. I won't take it until my back gets really bad though because it stopped being effective when I took it on a regular basis. Personally I find that applying heat to my back gives me the most relief and because I have problems standing for more than a few minutes at a time I purchased a bar stool that I sit on at the sink or stove and it really helps in getting my kitchen chores done. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

"Degenerative disc disease is as certain as death and taxes, and to a certain degree this process happens to everyone. However, not everyone who has degenerative changes in their lumbar spine has pain. Many people who have "normal" backs have MRIs that show disc herniations, degenerative changes, and narrowed spinal canals. Every patient is different, and it is important to realize that not everyone develops symptoms as a result of degenerative disc disease."

Answer 5

Everyones pain threshold is different.I have 4 discs fused, have pain all the time, its called chronic pain.I take percocett as I need too.Takes the bite out.Seek out a pain clinic, whatever it takes.

Answer 6

I have it in my lower back. It hasn't reached the point where I need pain meds. I find the stronger my back muscles are the better it feels. Still I can't stand or walk for very long.