Back pain can have many sources, but two of the most common and closely linked conditions are degenerative disc disease (DDD) and facet joint arthritis. These conditions often develop gradually, sometimes with few symptoms in the early stages. But over time, they can significantly impact your mobility, comfort, and quality of life.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we often see patients who are unaware that their back pain is due to a combination of spinal disc and joint degeneration. In this blog, we explain how degenerative disc disease progresses to facet joint arthritis, how to recognize the signs, and what treatments are available to help you stay active and pain-free.
Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease—it’s a natural part of the aging process. Over time, the spinal discs (which act like shock absorbers between your vertebrae) lose water content, become thinner, and may start to break down. This loss of disc height and flexibility can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Some people may not notice symptoms early on, while others may experience:
The facet joints are small joints located at the back of the spine that help with stability and movement. These joints work together with the discs to allow the spine to bend and twist smoothly.
When spinal discs begin to deteriorate, two key changes occur:
Over time, this extra stress can lead to facet joint degeneration, also known as facet joint arthritis or facet arthropathy. Just like arthritis in the knees or hips, this condition causes inflammation, joint stiffness, and pain.
When facet joint arthritis develops, it may present with symptoms such as:
These symptoms can overlap with those of degenerative disc disease, which is why a thorough evaluation is essential.
At DRHC, we use advanced imaging tools such as MRI, X-rays, and CT scans to evaluate both the spinal discs and facet joints. A detailed physical exam and review of your medical history help us create a clear picture of how far the condition has progressed.
If you’re experiencing ongoing back pain and are unsure of the cause, our team can provide an accurate diagnosis and a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
We understand that the thought of spinal procedures or surgery can be overwhelming. That’s why our first approach focuses on non-surgical options whenever possible.
These methods are often effective for early to moderate cases and help reduce inflammation and pain while improving function.
If conservative treatments are no longer effective, we may consider advanced options such as:
At DRHC Dubai, your comfort and safety are our priorities. Our spine specialists will guide you through every step of your treatment journey with clear explanations and compassionate care.