Do you suffer from back pain that seems to never go away? You might find yourself wondering if there is anything else out there that could possibly help alleviate your condition. Spinal decompression may be something worth considering. This procedure has become increasingly popular in recent years as an effective alternative treatment for those who are seeking relief from their neck and back issues. As a chiropractor, I want to take the time today to share with you why spinal decompression could potentially be beneficial for anyone looking for a non-invasive way to cope with chronic pain or any other issue related to your spine’s health.
As a general rule, spinal decompression therapy has been shown to provide relief for chronic back and neck pain, herniated discs, and more. It is a non-invasive alternative to surgery and can have fewer side effects and faster recovery times. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s right for you.
What Is Spinal Decompression and What Are Its Benefits?
Spinal decompression is a non-invasive, therapeutic technique designed to relieve pain and release pressure on the spine caused by disc degeneration, herniated discs and sciatica. The process relieves tension in the back muscles, ligaments and tendons that often limit mobility in the spine. It is also used to reduce nerve root compression from spinal stenosis and other conditions causing pain. Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine using a traction table or other similar device. This creates negative pressure in the discs of the spine, which helps reposition bulging or herniated discs away from nerves and back into their original place in the spinal column. In addition to this, it can promote oxygenated blood flow through the spine, helping to reduce pain and inflammation.
Spinal decompression is a safe and effective treatment that can provide relief from chronic back pain as well as neck, arm and leg discomfort caused by disc or nerve issues. It has been found to be particularly successful in treating lower back pain due to herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease. In addition to providing short-term relief of symptoms, spinal decompression can also create a long-term benefit by promoting the healing process and helping to prevent the need for future surgery. Further research is needed before definitive conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of this therapy for certain conditions; however, it does appear promising.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is generally best suited to those suffering from chronic back pain, neck pain and sciatica due to herniated discs, degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. It is also suitable for people who suffer from recurring episodes of lower back pain but have not responded to other treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic care or medications. People with acute fractures, infections or severe scoliosis are not typically good candidates for this treatment and should consult with their physician before considering it. Additionally, pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or osteoporosis should speak to their doctor prior to undergoing any type of spinal decompression therapy.
How Does Spinal Decompression Work, and Is It Painful?
Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine using a traction table or other similar device. This creates negative pressure in the discs of the spine, which helps reposition bulging or herniated discs away from nerves and back into their original place in the spinal column. In addition to this, it can promote oxygenated blood flow through the spine, helping to reduce pain and inflammation.
The procedure itself is generally not painful, although some people may experience mild discomfort during treatment depending on their condition and tolerance level. The therapist administering the therapy will be able to adjust settings as needed throughout the session in order to minimize any discomfort or distress experienced by the patient. It typically takes around 10-15 minutes for each session and most people report feeling relief after a few sessions.
It is important to note that while spinal decompression therapy can be an effective treatment, it may not provide long-term relief for everyone. It is always best to discuss all available options with your doctor in order to determine the most appropriate course of action for you.
What Are the Risks Associated With Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated; however, there are a few potential risks to be aware of. Possible side effects may include increased pain or discomfort during the session, headaches and nausea. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure should always speak to their doctor prior to considering this type of treatment. It is also important to note that spinal decompression should not be used in place of regular checkups and routine care from your healthcare provider.
Overall, spinal decompression therapy can be an effective treatment for chronic back pain due to herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis. While it does carry some risk of side effects, it is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment option. It is always best to discuss all available options with your doctor in order to determine the most appropriate course of action for you.
References:
1. Vad, V. B., & Walega, D. R. (2006). Spinal decompression therapy for chronic low back pain: a systematic review within the framework of the Cochrane collaboration. American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation, 85(10), 801-817.
2. Lee, M., Koo, Y., Chon, J., Kim, J., & Yi, S. (2017). A systematic review of the effectiveness and safety of non
Is There Anything I Can Do to Help Relieve My Back Pain Without Surgery or Medication?
Yes! In addition to spinal decompression therapy, there are several other non-invasive treatments that can help relieve back pain without the need for surgery or medications. These include:
• Strengthening and stretching exercises – Targeting specific muscles in the torso and lower body can help strengthen the spine, improve posture and reduce pain.
• Heat/cold therapy – Applying heat or cold packs to areas of discomfort can help relax tight muscles and reduce inflammation.
• Massage – Massage therapy has been shown to provide relief from back pain due to muscle tension or spasms.
• Acupuncture – This ancient Chinese practice is known to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, helping to reduce pain and improve range of motion.
• Yoga – Stretching and breathing exercises can help to increase flexibility, reduce tension and improve overall well-being.
It is important to note that everyone’s condition is different, so what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It is always best to speak with your doctor before beginning any new treatment regimen in order to ensure that it is the right course of action for you.