Spinal Decompression for Spondylolisthesis

People suffering from spondylolisthesis have vertebrae that have shifted out of their natural position. The degree of pain a patient experiences depends on how severe the shift is. Spinal decompression is popular among people with this condition, even though no specific treatment can be found for it.

While you can speak with your expert at Spinal Decompression Ireland about what spondylolisthesis is, we’ll cover specific aspects of this condition to give you a better understanding.

Types of Spondylolisthesis Severity

Depending on how severe your condition how much spinal decompression you will receive. Spondylolisthesis is known to have two major terms that describe its severity for patients. Both terms are considered low and high grades. The grades are determined by the shift in the vertebrae. There are low-grade shifts of vertebrae that are not over 50 per cent of their normal location in the spine. The shifts that are greater than 50 per cent are considered high grades.

Genetics of spondylolisthesis

It is possible for someone to be susceptible to this condition due to their genetics. The genetic makeup of some families causes people to be born with thinner spines. Therefore, they are more likely to suffer spine fractures and to develop spondylolisthesis.

The Cause of Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis can be caused by several different risk factors. The most common one is genetics. Children growing into adulthood are also at risk. Their growing bodies make the spine more susceptible to damage. Physically active children like gymnasts and football players are more likely to develop this condition because of the added pressure on their spinal bones.

Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis

A diagnosis of your condition is required before you can be prescribed at Spinal Decompression Ireland. Symptoms will help your practitioner determine your condition. Examples are:

• The pain is similar to that of a muscle strain
• Back pain radiating to the thighs
• Daily activities increase pain, but rest decreases it
• It’s hard to stand or walk
• The back is extremely stiff and the hamstrings are extremely tight

What Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is a non-invasive treatment that relies on relieving pressure from the spinal nerves. The patient will experience reduced discomfort as a result. It is most common for patients to receive spinal decompression over a 15- to 30-minute period. Spinal decompression chiropractors may choose to schedule you for five to seven weeks, depending on the severity of your condition.

How Does Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Work?

Although you should always consult your chiropractic decompression specialist for specific information and answer all your specific questions, here is a brief overview of the procedure. 

As part of spinal decompression, the doctor uses a traction table or something similar. They are usually motorized to make the procedure easier. It is normal to remain fully clothed during the procedure. The procedure will be performed while you lie on your back. An experienced assistant will fit the harness around your pelvis. An upper body harness will also be fitted as well. The motorized machine will be operated by the physician or assistant once it has been secured.

As a result of the traction, your spine will be mechanically stressed during this process. In turn, the spine repositions the vertebrae into their intended positions. The discs in the spine are relieved of pressure by this process. Moreover, it allows water, nutrient-rich fluids, and oxygen to flow freely into the discs. By allowing these substances to move freely, patients will be able to heal more rapidly.

Also, decompression is prescribed for patients suffering from other spinal conditions. Wear and tear on spinal joints, diseases of the nerve roots, and sciatica are some examples. Spondylolisthesis pain is an extremely common condition that chiropractors recommend for treatment.

Who Shouldn’t Have Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is not for everyone, just like any other form of medical treatment. Certain people may be better off avoiding this treatment. These include people who:

• You’re Pregnant
• You Have A Fractured Spine
• Tumours
• The abdominal aorta is aneurysmal
• You have advanced osteoporosis
• Having Metal Implants In Their Spines

How Does Surgical Spinal Decompression Work?

Spinal decompression can take two different forms. We have discussed non-invasive spinal decompression therapy or simply spinal decompression therapy so far. You can have this type of procedure done in your chiropractor’s office under the supervision of a staff member.

Spinal decompression surgery is another method. When other non-invasive treatments like spinal decompression therapy fail to reduce pain brought on by spondylolisthesis, this type of treatment is often the last resort. A spine surgeon performs this procedure. 

Spinal surgery is recommended when an immense amount of pressure is placed on the nerves in the spinal cord, causing them to experience pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling.

Spinal decompression surgeries can be performed in many different ways by surgeons. These include discectomy, foraminotomy, osteophyte removal, corpectomy, and laminectomy. Surgery always carries risks, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, and tissue damage.

Summary

If you are one of the many people suffering from spondylolisthesis, we want to let you know that spinal decompression may be able to help. Our team at Spinal Decompression Ireland is passionate about helping our patients find relief, and we’ve helped countless individuals achieve a better quality of life with this treatment. Contact us today for a free consultation to see if spinal decompression is right for you. We look forward to hearing from you!

Sources:

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