Degenerative means to deteriorate thus degenerative disease means something that is not curable and will worsen as you grow old. The best thing that you can do when you have degenerative disease is to be able to manage the pain and other symptoms related to the disease. There are various ways of treating degenerative disc disease but it is vital that before you undergo with such treatment you have to consult your doctor first so that you will not worsen you condition.
Do not ever attempt to use your own judgment base on the information that you find in the internet. There are a lot of back conditions that has the same symptoms. It is important then that you consult your doctor and have your doctor take a look so he can come up with the right diagnosis. So what are the various treatment methods?
Over-the counter (OTC) Medications
The most popular medications used are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which can lessen inflammation as well as pain and these include drugs like Naproxen, Ibuprofen or Aspirin. The common side effects of these drugs when taken for a long period of time are upset stomach. If you cannot take the side effects then you can go for milder ones like Tylenol. It can still cause you upset stomach but it is much more tolerable than the other drugs mention above.
Core Exercise or Gyrotonics
Core exercises focus on specific parts of the body like your back, abdominal muscles and neck. These are just simple to perform exercise that you can do right in your own home. One way of performing core exercise is through Gyrotonics where you are combining dance, swimming, yoga, TaiChi and gymnastics. This is the best way to increase flexibility, back strength and aids in conditioning your body in the safest manner.
Hydrotherapy
To exercise in the water can be very beneficial to your health especially those who are suffering from joint pain. Exercising in the water is much easier since the buoyancy of the water promotes much easier move with less pain. You can do a lot of activities in the water like swimming, jogging, Yoga and even walking. Temperature of the water can be easily adjusted. You benefit from cold and warm water since cold water will lessen any swelling if there are any and pain as well while with warm water it can lessen pain too, relieve sore and strained muscles. It can also increase blood circulation to the injured area.
Aerobics
If your pain is slowly going away then try to find ways to keep yourself fit and healthy as well as active. You can do this by performing aerobics which will aid you in keeping your self fit, flexible and strong. Look for exercise that is safe for you and avoid those that are hard for your joints and discs like jogging or running. Best exercise for you are cycling, swimming, and using treadmills and many more.
These are just a few of a non-invasive method of treating degenerative disc disease. It is the safest way for you although surgery is always an option for you to turn to if all else will fail.