Genetically Engineered Human Protein is Being Tested For Degenerative Disc Disease

Genetically engineered human protein, known as rhGDF-5, is being tested to see if injections of it into the lower spine can provide pain relief and slow or possibly even reverse early stage degenerative disc disease. While the research is in an early stage, the possibility of recombinant human growth and differentiation factor-5 being able to help patients with moderate to severe lower back pain is promising as another potential solution to providing pain relief.

The study outcomes will evaluate if injections of rhGDF-5 into the lower spine can relieve pain and slow or even reverse early stage degenerative disc disease. Researchers at 10 centers across the U.S. are part of study that will follow patients for up to three years.

According to information posted in Spine Tech News, the study consists of patients who have had persistent discogenic back pain for at least three months at one symptomatic lumbar level from L3/L4 to L5/S1 and who have not responded to conservative medical treatment such as physical therapy. Clinical outcomes will be measured using standard validated tools and lumbar disc changes will be measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. It is hoped that one day this could be a potential treatment option to help reverse deteriorating spinal conditions and as another way to provide pain relief.

If you are currently suffering from back or neck pain and are finding that it is affecting your lifestyle, give us a call at The Minimally Invasive Spine Institute and let us see how we can start providing you with a healthier and happier lifestyle. There’s no need to wait; give us a call today for a thorough examination.

Tags: Degenerative Disc Disease, Minimally Invasive Spine Institute