Tag: Degenerative disc disease

The annual incidence of lumbar spine fusions increased by 289% between 1997 and 2016 [1.9.5]. But what is fusion used to treat? This surgical procedure primarily addresses spinal instability and pain by permanently joining two or more vertebrae [1.2.3, 1.3.4].

According to recent clinical guidelines, gabapentin is not generally recommended for chronic low back pain, yet it is often prescribed for nerve-related symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease. This highlights the need for a deeper understanding of when and how **does gabapentin help degenerative disc disease** and its related neuropathic pain.

By age 50, around 80% of people show signs of disc degeneration on imaging studies [1.4.1]. When managing this common condition, the central question often is: what is the drug of choice for degenerative disc disease? Treatment is typically multi-faceted, starting with conservative care.