Spinal decompression is an advanced form of spinal traction used in the treatment of disc-related back pain.
The large majority of patients who qualify under these criteria will typically get excellent results and be able to resume their daily activities without any major pain
Spinal Decompresion
Spinal decompression has been an important part of my practice for some years now, and while it is a remarkably effective treatment for the vast majority of patients suffering from the symptoms of herniated and/or degenerated spinal discs, it is not an appropriate treatment for every patient with back pain. Sadly, the financial investment involved in providing spinal decompression services appears to sometimes influence doctors to recommend it in cases where it may not be necessary or indicated.
The Basics of Spinal DecompressionÂ
Simply put, this is a spinal disc rehabilitation technique used by chiropractors by utilizing FDA approved equipment and technology. This technique works by stretching the spine and relieving pressure on the spinal discs. The procedure can either be surgical or non-surgical and due to the effectiveness of non-surgical spinal decompression, this analysis will focus on the same. The technique works by unloading due to distraction and positioning which separates the spinal vertebrates from each other and create a vacuum effect, or negative intradiscal pressure, inside the disc that is being targeted.
The effect of this negative pressure is retraction of bulging or herniated discs, which cause much of the pain and irritation, into the main disc. This is what chiropractors aim to achieve during spinal decompression. The pain discerned in most of the lumbar region emanates from the pressure applied on the nerves in this region and when that is relieved, through sequential sessions over some time, you will feel better and your mobility will be greatly enhanced. Spinal decompression is also critical in allowing more oxygen into this region and this can eventually lead to healing of the degenerative discs.
How a Spinal Decompression Session is done?
Many advances in medical technology have been made since the 1980s when the technology was first used. You will not need to undress and a pelvic harness will be fitted as well as a thoracic one across the chest before you lie on a table face down. The table is automatically controlled through an on-board computer which determines the angle and force of distraction. The table thus enables the application of traction force to the spinal discs which over time will induce the vacuum effect. Each session takes about 30-45 minutes though this can vary depending on your condition.
Now that you appreciate what spinal decompression is, the obvious question is whether you can benefit from this therapy option. A consultation with your doctor and chiropractor is essential before undergoing spinal decompression. Some of the conditions that might be improved upon include back and neck pain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, worn spinal discs among others. However, if you have a fracture, tumor, mental implants or advanced osteoporosis you cannot undergo spinal decompression due to the heath risks involved.