As the population ages, it is even more common for individuals to have signs of disc degeneration without pain, and by the time an individual reaches 60 years old, disc degeneration is an expected finding on an MRI scan. In fact, the incidence of low back pain actually declines as we age, despite the fact that our discs are degenerating. While many people over the age of 60 have degenerated discs, it is highly uncommon for them to suffer from degenerative disc disease. Treatment options For most people, degenerative disc disease can be successfully treated with conservative care. For patients who are unable to function because of the pain, or who are frustrated with their activity limitations, lumbar spinal fusion surgery is an option.
Fusion surgery works because it stops the motion at a painful motion segment.
When performed judiciously by an experienced surgeon trained in doing fusion surgery, a fusion surgery can be an effective option for patients to enhance their activity level and overall quality of life.