Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects millions of people, particularly as they age. While the name implies a disease, it’s actually a natural part of the aging process where spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity over time. This degeneration can cause pain, mobility issues, and a lower quality of life for many. While conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medications are often the first line of defense, there comes a point for some patients when surgery becomes a necessary consideration.

In this comprehensive guide from Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan, a top NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, discusses when surgery for degenerative disc disease may be necessary, what procedures are available, how to prepare, and what patients can expect during recovery.

Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease

The spine is made up of a series of vertebrae cushioned by discs. These intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers and allow flexibility and movement in the spine. As we age, these discs can begin to wear down, leading to degenerative disc disease.

Causes of DDD:

• Aging (most common)
• Repetitive stress on the spine
• Traumatic injury
• Poor posture and ergonomics
• Genetic predisposition

Common Symptoms:

• Chronic lower back or neck pain
• Pain radiating to arms or legs (depending on disc location)
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs
• Pain that worsens with movement, bending, or twisting
• Relief when lying down or changing positions

It’s important to note that not everyone with disc degeneration will experience significant symptoms or need surgical intervention. Many people live with mild to moderate DDD and manage it successfully with conservative care.

When Is Surgery Considered for Degenerative Disc Disease?

Surgery is rarely the first option. In fact, most spine surgeons, including Dr. Arutyunyan at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, prioritize non-surgical treatments for several months before even discussing surgical intervention. These include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle changes such as weight loss or ergonomic adjustments.

However, there are specific situations where surgery becomes a necessity:

1. Persistent, Debilitating Pain

When chronic back or neck pain persists for more than 6 months despite conservative treatment, and interferes with daily activities, work, and quality of life, surgery may be recommended.

2. Neurological Symptoms

Signs like muscle weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs can indicate that nerve roots or the spinal cord are being compressed. Left untreated, this can lead to permanent nerve damage.

3. Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

This is a medical emergency often associated with a condition known as cauda equina syndrome. It requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent permanent disability.

4. Structural Instability of the Spine

Advanced degeneration can result in spinal instability, where the vertebrae no longer align properly. This instability can lead to abnormal motion, progressive deformity, and further pain.

What Surgical Options Are Available?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to surgery for degenerative disc disease. At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan, a leading Spine Surgeon in NYC, tailors surgical solutions to each patient’s condition, symptoms, and spinal anatomy. Common surgical procedures include:

1. Discectomy

A discectomy involves removing the portion of the damaged disc that is pressing on a nerve root. This procedure is often minimally invasive and offers quick recovery times.

Ideal for: Patients with herniated discs and nerve compression causing radiculopathy.

2. Spinal Fusion

This is the most common surgery for DDD. It involves removing the degenerated disc and fusing two vertebrae together with bone grafts, screws, or rods. The goal is to eliminate painful motion between the vertebrae.

Ideal for: Severe disc degeneration, spinal instability, or spondylolisthesis.

3. Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)

Instead of fusing the spine, ADR involves replacing the damaged disc with a synthetic one. This preserves spinal mobility and can be a great option for select patients.

Ideal for: Younger patients with isolated disc degeneration and no significant arthritis or spinal deformity.

4. Laminectomy or Laminotomy

These procedures involve removing part or all of the lamina (a part of the vertebra) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Ideal for: Spinal stenosis due to disc degeneration or arthritic overgrowths.

How Do You Know If You’re a Candidate for Surgery?

A thorough evaluation is essential. At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan conducts a full assessment including:

• Detailed medical history
• Physical and neurological examination
• Diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scan, X-rays)
• Review of conservative treatments already tried

He evaluates your symptoms, spine stability, disc health, and overall lifestyle needs. This holistic approach ensures that surgery is only pursued when it’s truly necessary and likely to result in significant improvement.

Risks and Considerations of Spine Surgery

All surgical procedures come with inherent risks. It’s critical to have realistic expectations and understand both the benefits and potential complications.

Potential Risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Non-union (in spinal fusion)
• Implant failure (in artificial disc replacement)
• Adjacent segment degeneration (especially with fusion)

That said, the vast majority of spine surgeries for DDD—especially when performed by an experienced NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon like Dr. Arutyunyan—have high success rates and can dramatically improve a patient’s quality of life.

Recovery After Surgery for Degenerative Disc Disease

Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed, the patient’s overall health, and how well post-operative instructions are followed.

General Recovery Timeline:

• Minimally invasive discectomy: 2–6 weeks
• Spinal fusion: 3–6 months (may take up to a year for full fusion)
• Artificial disc replacement: 4–8 weeks

Postoperative Care:

• Pain management with medications
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve mobility
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the early stages
• Regular follow-ups with your surgeon

At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan emphasizes patient education and rehabilitation. Personalized recovery plans are designed to help patients return to their daily lives as safely and quickly as possible.

Avoiding Surgery: Can It Be Done?

Yes. Many people with degenerative disc disease never need surgery. Successful non-surgical management often includes:

• Physical Therapy: Core strengthening, flexibility, posture correction
• Chiropractic Care: Spinal alignment and muscle relief
• Pain Management: Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks
• Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, smoking cessation, ergonomic improvements
• Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy

However, if pain persists or nerve involvement worsens, delaying necessary surgery can lead to more complications. That’s why it’s important to stay under the care of a skilled Spine Surgeon who can monitor progression.

Why Choose Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics?

If you’re considering spine surgery in New York City, it’s crucial to work with an experienced and compassionate team. At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan offers:

• Advanced diagnostics and imaging
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• A patient-centered approach
• Decades of specialized experience in Back Pain Treatment NYC
• A track record of successful surgical outcomes

Located in the heart of New York City, Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics is dedicated to helping patients reclaim their lives from debilitating spine conditions. Whether you need a second opinion, conservative care, or surgical treatment, Dr. Arutyunyan and his team are ready to guide you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: When to Consider Surgery for DDD

Deciding to undergo surgery for degenerative disc disease is a deeply personal and often emotional decision. It should never be rushed, and should always follow a thoughtful and thorough process.

Surgery becomes necessary when:

• Pain is unmanageable with conservative care
• Neurological symptoms are worsening
• Daily function is impaired
• Imaging confirms significant degeneration or instability

If you suspect your condition may require surgical intervention, or if you’re simply seeking clarity about your options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics. Get the expert guidance you need to make an informed, confident decision about your spine health.

If you are experiencing back pain and seeking expert care from a leading NYC orthopedic spine surgeon, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan today. Take the first step toward a pain-free life with the latest advancements in spine surgery.