Degenerative Spine Disorders: Current Diagnostic and Therapeutic Trends

Abstract

Degenerative spine disorders represent a leading cause of chronic pain, disability, and healthcare utilization worldwide, particularly among aging populations. These conditions encompass a spectrum of pathological changes affecting the intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, and vertebral bodies, resulting in clinical entities such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylosis, and degenerative spondylolisthesis. Advances in diagnostic imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, biologics, and multidisciplinary conservative management have significantly altered treatment paradigms. This review provides an updated overview of the current diagnostic approaches, evolving therapeutic strategies, clinical outcomes, and ongoing challenges in the management of degenerative spine disorders, emphasizing evidence-based and patient-centered care.