What is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a non-invasive or minimally invasive treatment approach designed to relieve pressure on the spine and alleviate symptoms associated with spinal conditions. It involves stretching the spine to create space between vertebrae, which can help relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
Key aspects of spinal decompression include:
- Mechanism of Action: Spinal decompression aims to reduce pressure on the spinal discs (the gel-like cushions between the vertebrae) and relieve compression on nerves. By creating negative pressure within the disc, it can promote the retraction or repositioning of herniated or bulging discs.
- Types of Spinal Decompression:
- Mechanical Decompression: Involves the use of a traction table or device to gently stretch and decompress the spine, relieving pressure on the discs and nerves.
- Manual Decompression: Performed by our chiropractors who uses their hands to apply controlled and precise force to stretch and decompress the spine.
- Conditions Treated
- Herniated or Bulging Discs: Spinal decompression can help alleviate pressure on the affected discs and reduce associated symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: It can provide relief for individuals with degenerative changes in the spine, where discs may be worn down or damaged.
- Sciatica: Spinal decompression can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, which often leads to symptoms like leg pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Spinal Stenosis: It may help individuals with spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, by creating more space for the nerves.
- Procedure and Sessions:
- Each session typically lasts around 30 to 45 minutes.
- The individual is usually comfortably positioned on a specialized table or device.
- The treatment involves gentle stretching and relaxation phases, allowing for controlled decompression of the spine.
- Potential Benefits:
- Pain relief and reduced discomfort associated with spinal conditions.
- Improved mobility and function.
- Potential avoidance or delay of surgery in some cases.
- Enhanced circulation to the affected spinal discs, promoting healing.
- Safety and Considerations:
- Spinal decompression is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.
- It may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as fractures, severe osteoporosis, spinal implants, or advanced stages of spinal instability.
- Consultation with a Healthcare Professional: Before undergoing spinal decompression, it’s important to consult with our providers to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition and health status.
Interested in Spinal decompression?
If you’d like to explore adding spinal decompression to your comprehensive treatment plan, please schedule a consultation today.