What are the alternatives to surgery for cervical degenerative disk disease?

Therapy: Depending on the severity of the disease some of the nonsurgical options include anti-inflammatory medicines, steroid injections, and physical therapy.

Conservative care: Surgery should be the last resort. Patients should undergo a course of physical therapy. Other conservative measures include chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture to name a few. Some patients may be candidates for injection therapy (epidural injections or facet injections).

Ecercises: Cervical disc degenerative disease may respond to exercises to strengthen the cervical muscles. Performing flexibility exercises and maintaining good posture will also help. The use of otc nasids like Aleve (naproxen) may be beneficial. See your pcp for an evaluation & guidance.

Likely: 40's man ponders alternatives to surgery "for degenerative disk disease" (ddd) ; should regard that ddd is radiologic term, usually not a pain generator, ; found in pain free individuals. Yoga, regular massage, acupuncture, topical cannabis oil (where legal), ; traction (saunders cervical traction device; fda approved) helpful. See an osteopath ; avoid surgeons unless there is weakness arm/hand.