Because DDD often causes localized inflammation and muscle spasms around the affected spinal segment, a comprehensive treatment plan usually begins with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce swelling and relieve mild to moderate pain.
If the pain is more severe or involves significant muscle tightness, a doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or a short course of oral corticosteroids. It is important to remember that these medications are designed to manage symptoms and facilitate your participation in physical therapy, rather than to reverse the underlying disc degeneration.
