Injectable tissue may provide long-term relief for chronic back pain
A minimally invasive treatment that injects tissue into the spine to relieve pain associated with degenerative disc disease lowers pain and improves function over a sustained period, says research due to be presented at a conference.
The treatment – viable disc allograft supplementation – injects specialised cells and fluid into a patient’s damaged disc. The cells of the injected fluid encourage the cells in the damaged disc to regenerate with healthy tissue.
A total of 50 people took part in the three-year study; 46 had allograft treatment and four had treatment with saline solution (ie a control group). The experts found that 60% of people who had the treatment reported a greater than 50% improvement in pain.
“The significant improvement in pain and function is promising for patients living with chronic low back pain – a condition that can greatly impact a person’s quality of life,” says lead author, Dr Douglas Beall. “Back pain is the leading cause of limited activity and workplace absenteeism. This treatment may help patients return to a normal activity level for a longer period time.”
Degenerative disc disease is very common and happens when the discs that cushion the spine’s vertebra begin to wear away. Because the discs help to facilitate movement and flexibility, the condition leads to pain and reduced functionality.
“Existing treatment for chronic low back pain due to degenerative disc disease is often ineffective or the effects are short-lived,” highlights Dr Beall. “We need better treatments for this condition since conservative care is not providing the long-term outcomes that patients deserve. Injectable allograft treatment might be the answer for many people.”
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