Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that nearly 30 million people are diagnosed with each year. It is a chronic condition that can be debilitating.

Many of those who suffer from DDD experience significant back pain. This can result in a decreased quality of life for some patients. In severe cases, standard non-operative treatments for DDD may not be effective.

What Causes Back Pain in Degenerative Disc Disease?

Many elements of the spine can result in painful sensations. However, intervertebral discs are believed to account for about half of all instances of chronic back pain. Intervertebral discs act as ligaments to hold together the vertebrae in the spine. The soft tissue of these discs helps to absorb impacts. The spine consists of these soft discs and the bone of the vertebrae. 

Intervertebral discs are constituted by a gelatinous center and an outer ring of fibrous tissue. Patients who …