Degenerative Disc Disorder (DDD) can affect any part of the spine, but often affects the low back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine). Where your pain is located will depend on what part of your spine has the disc degeneration. At the New York Spine Institute, we are dedicated to providing our patients with a number of accessible and convenient treatment options for Degenerative Disc Disorder. Our offices are home to some of the best back and neck doctors, surgeons, and physical therapists in the industry. We are proud to offer our patients the care they deserve.*
No matter your symptoms, past medical history, or lifestyle, NYSI promises to create a comprehensive treatment customized just for you. From physical therapy to surgery, our team is here to provide high quality care.
INDUSTRY LEADERS
Alexandre B. de Moura, M.D., FAAOS is New York Spine Institute’s leading medical director. Back doctors at NYSI are industry leaders in complex spine disorder treatments with decades of experience.
MULTIPLE LANGUAGES
New York Spine Institute provides back pain services to patients from all over the world. Our professional staff speaks several languages including Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German, and Russian.
The Founder of NYSI Alexandre B. de Moura, MD, FAAOS
Patients know him for his empathy and confidence. Physicians refer to him for his judgment and results. Dr. de Moura has built his reputation on trust, precision, and outcomes that truly change lives.
Early Inspiration
Dr. de Moura's path began with his father—a pioneering orthopedic surgeon whose legacy deeply shaped his passion for spinal care. From a young age, he witnessed how expert hands and compassionate care could transform lives, setting the foundation for a lifelong mission.
World-Class Training
Dr. de Moura received elite surgical training at some of the nation's top institutions, gaining the technical skill and clinical insight needed to treat the most complex spinal conditions. His background combines academic excellence with hands-on expertise.
Founding NYSI
In 2000, Dr. de Moura founded New York Spine Institute to bring comprehensive, multi-specialty care under one roof. His vision was clear: make world-class spine care accessible, coordinated, and deeply patient-focused.
20+ Years of Experience
With over two decades of specialized practice, Dr. de Moura has performed thousands of procedures and guided countless patients through recovery. His deep experience allows him to deliver not just treatment—but true transformation.
Specialist in Complex Spine Conditions
From scoliosis to spinal deformities and degenerative disorders, Dr. de Moura is known for handling the cases others refer out. He's not just a surgeon—he's a problem solver, often sought out when options feel limited.
Understanding the Causes Of Your Degenerative Disc Disorder
Degenerative Disc Disease is when the normal wear and tear on your spine begins to cause you pain. Your spinal vertebrae are shock absorbers that help you stay flexible. As you age the normal breakdown of these discs may cause pain or discomfort.*
Degenerative Disc Disease as the condition states is caused by the aging process. Although this is a natural process. Sudden injuries or trauma to the spine can also spark the onset of this condition.
There are several risk factors that can influence the onset of symptoms later in life such as:
Family history of DDD
Excessive strain and wear due to sports
Labor-intensive jobs, heavy lifting
Obesity- excessive extra weight on joints
Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products
Disc degeneration is a common part of getting old, however, not all people develop pain or any type of symptoms. Symptoms tend to show themselves when spinal instability, muscle tension, and possibly nerve root irritation. It is also common that back pain that is due to DDD is more severe for individuals between ages 30 and 40 than past age 60 years of age.
What Our Patients Have To Say Real Patient Testimonials
Dr. Roberts is the BEST and that’s my personal opinion. He is very hands on, compassion and understanding. I highly recommend his services.
—Anna Thomas
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would high...
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would highly recommend them to anyone with back issues.
—Juan Rolon
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I ch...
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I choose the right doctor. I Went to see Dr. Passias with 5 herniated discs, pain in neck, shoulder, arm and tangles fingers. Dr. Passias gave me the time to explain and tell him all what I feel about my pain and he was lesson to all off it he makes me feel friendly He is the doctor I can trust He take the pain away from me GOD BLESS Him
—Mohamed Haridy
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when s...
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when someone goes through so much injury and trauma and then in turn, feels like I do. If you can just meet one doctor, please meet Dr. de Moura.”
—Annette
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 an...
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 and S1. This was a ten-hour procedure. I exceeded both Dr. Macagno and the hospital staff expectations. Instead of walking a few steps, I easily walked the full length of the hospital halls and climbed stairs almost immediately after surgery. I am so happy to have met Dr. Macagno. I sing his praises every day and I always post on social media about how amazing I am doing every year on the anniversary of my surgery.”
—Gregg
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your care...
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your careful supervision of my recovery were a strong indication of the genuine concern you have for me. During my later years, I’ve had numerous associations with doctors and a variety of experiences. I can honestly say that I could not have received better treatment than I received from you.”
—L.B.
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up t...
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up to your reputation. My friend was right: You’re very good at what you do. Thanks again, and although you’re a very nice man, I hope never to have to see you again.”
—J.B.
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to ...
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to be at my side if and when surgery becomes necessary. You are a fine physician giving to those in need.”
—K.F.
“Dr. Macagno is the Best doctor! Professional and compassionate. Honest and knowledgeable. Worth every star and about 10 more!!!”
—M.C.
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured cli...
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured clients was treated there (I am a personal injury attorney). He had a terrific recovery and I credit Dr. de Moura and his staff with that.”
—A.Z.
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a...
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a Dr. V and the world for patients with pain would be a much better place. I haven’t had a Dr this great since Dr de Mourra who did my surgery In 2013. Thank you Dr de Mourra for referring me to a pain management dr who really cares for my needs as his patient. It has been a tough road . I can now honestly say the road I travel now as a pain patient is much smoother and manageable. Thank you Dr v and NYU.
Diagnosing Degenerative Disc Disorder is typically done in two stages. First a review of your medical history including a review of when symptoms began, past injuries, sleeping patterns, and a family history. Following this portion, there’s a physical examination. One of our NYSI doctors will test your range of motion, check for any areas of tenderness, and any spots where there could be inflammation. One of our spinal specialists can help locate the segment of your spine suffering from disc degeneration.
At our office we offer imaging services, this condition, depending on the severity, may require an MRI scan to ensure that other issues are not contributing to painful symptoms, such as a fracture or disc herniation. If surgery is needed, an imaging test is required before any procedures to accurately locate the degenerated disc and plan the surgery. Our MRI technician Alexandra Inglima will make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free. Set up your consultation today to learn about the steps you can take.
Treatment Options For Degenerative Disc Disorder
Treatment options for Degenerative Disc Disorder vary from patient to patient and the severity of their symptoms found in the consultation. At New York Spine Institute, we aim to give you the most appropriate treatment options, and put surgery on the table as a last possible option. Physical Therapy is a form of therapy we offer used to encourage mobility and movement, decrease pain, restore function and prevent disability in patients with injuries or impairments.* This is achieved through the use of modalities, active and passive stretching, engaging in an exercise program and manual therapy. Michael Friar D.P.T will provide you with the proper treatment options based off your previous examinations. You will receive an exercise plan while in our offices, and a regimen for when you’re at home.
NYSI offers alternative treatments such as acupuncture and medications such as muscle relaxants, antidepressants, or anti-inflammatory drugs to ease symptoms. We like to offer surgery as a last resort option. If you’ve tried non-invasive approaches for your DDD for a long period of time without results, consult one of our NYSI doctors to discuss the best options for you.
Need a Consultation for Your Degenerative Disc Disorder?
We have offices located throughout greater New York City, Long Island, White Plains, and Newburgh, NY. For a free consultation, contact us today.
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