What can be done for degenerative disc?i It is causing dizziness

HI - have you tried the medication, Nurtec? It's an antihistamine (prescription only) but sometimes the dizziness could be from a migraine headache. I suffered from vertigo for a long time and was finally helped somewhat when the vertigo specialist (ENT-neurologist) recommended I try this. I'm also trying chiropractic services which seems to be helping even more than Nurtec. I've discontinued the Nurtec now for awhile.

@pat80 I see a physical therapist, but I never considered a chiropractic for my lower back degenerative disc disease. Could you talk more about what this involves? Does your chiropractor do manipulations? Did he take back x-rays or use the ones your radiologist originally took?

I've been to other chiropractors in the past years and this is the first one who has been as thorough. For the first visit he did an EMG (thermal)scan to help detect patterns of vertebral subluxation.This measured skin temperatures along the spine in an effort to find nervous system disturbances that might be affecting other vital organs. It also measured muscle tone. I received a color coded printout of the various areas of my spine that showed muscle weakness and abnormal tension, and areas that probably was causing tension. This gave him direction as to where to focus. After about 4-5 sessions, he did another scan which showed progress in a variety of areas. Yes, he does manipulation but started off with low manipulation and is now moving into more aggressive manipulation as he has learned what I can tolerate and progress that has been made. Along the way, he has given me various tips related to posture, walking (imaging my head attached to the ceiling) and how to carry my heavy handbag. He also has various pain medicines and nutritional items for sale but there is absolutely no pressure to buy. I had previously had x-rays of my back by my radiologist as well as my primary care physician and each of them recommended a pain doctor from whom I had a back ablation. The ablation did not help the pain. I'd also seen several physical therapists with minimal success that really didn't last very long. This chiropractor spends the time explaining to me what he is doing and why it might help. I understand the many pain doctors are certified in anesthesiology and often are not especially skilled in patient interpersonal relationships, i.e. communication. That's one of the reasons I appreciate this chiropractor as he explains what he is doing and why it might help.

The question to ask is it in your head (vestibular system)? Have you seen a neurologist yet? PT has some very effective tools for people with balance issues and brain neuroplasticity issues. But you need a diagnosis first.

@pat80
Nurtec $ 1800.00 per month ! I know - I’ve tried.

How do you know? I have degenerative disc disease, but it does not cause dizziness. Degenerative disc disease means that your discs are deteriorating. Dizziness is common in women when they get to a certain age how old are you? Dizziness can be caused by Horman, imbalance, vertigo, insulin resistance, and many other things. You should start with your primary doctor and have them rule out viruses and probably direct you to a vertigo doctor if you continue to have problems.

@kisu try an MFR therapist. They align everything up and down your body. There’s a section here in the Mayo Clinic forum you can look up or you can search MFR therapist online I go twice a month for the last year but now I’m starting to stretch it out because it’s working. It’s like a painful massage that and glues your muscles that have been glued together and tug on your body great stuff. I love it. I pay out of my pocket for a therapist. I love.

@loriesco I ruptured L4L5 discs in 2003 when I slipped and fell on wet slippery painted cement stairs stairs while working. It ended that career. To this day I find just walking helps. When I mistakenly aggravate it my sciatica kicks up and only med that helps is Ibuprofen.

@rosalind308- I am very fortunate as my medication insurance (Express-Scripts) through United Health Care Medicare Care paid for it totally.

@barbarian1 I am sorry and myself, must be very careful because I have been prone to falls since childhood. (my knees are SAFE from any surgery because there is so much scar tissue!)
The military "ibuprofened me" into the hospital 25 years ago. The attending doctor informed me it was the worst medication to immediately stop (for chronic long term use). I went through severe withdrawals. Then they agreed to put me on lightweight narcotic and here I've stayed ever since! My chronic sciatic problem was resolved with hip replacement surgery and finally with back surgery. They straightened out L3 - L5 and that relieved the muscles from going into spasm. 25 years ago I was also diagnosed with piriformis disorder and 10 years ago with SI joint issues so who knows what the primary issue is any more. BUT - every tax season if I sit too much it returns. Stretching/walking/ keeping the piriformis muscles in shape and aligned. This means going to an MFR therapist who smooths out the muscles that press on the nerves. Works like a charm. Find a great MFR therapist. Don't expect to go one time.