Spinal Decompression Therapy is a computer-assisted therapy that has transformed the treatment of persistent low back and neck pain caused by herniated, slipped, or degenerative discs. It is most frequently used to treat Sciatica (leg pain). Decompression can be performed surgically or non-surgically. Laminectomy and Microdiscectomy are two surgical spinal decompression procedures. In layman’s words, non surgical spinal decompression therapy is a safe and effective alternative to surgical decompression to alleviate back pain.
What is spinal decompression therapy?
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy is a motorized traction therapy that gently extends the spine, resulting in a change in force and position of the spine, which releases the pressure on the spinal discs and nerves that is causing the pain in the first place. It generates negative intradiscal stress, which encourages herniated disc material relocation. It may help relieve pain and inflammation in the lower back and prevent surgery, mainly if the back discomfort is caused by stress. It is beneficial for persons who suffer from persistent back pain that worsens with age.
The discs that lie between the bones of the spine lose fluid as individuals age, and as a result, the spine gets compressed, with less protection between each bone. The mild pressures of Spinal Decompression Therapy help the spine to de-stress, resulting in decreased disc pressure. It results in increased blood flow and an inflow of healing nutrients transferred to the wounded region.
What Are the Potential Risks of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Despite being a minimally invasive process, non surgical spinal decompression therapy has its own set of risks, just like any other surgery. To minimize these concerns, the chiropractor may request that the patient undertake a series of screening procedures, including a physical exam, MRI, and X-Rays, to assess whether Spinal Decompression therapies are appropriate for the patient.
The use of spinal decompression therapy is not for:
- For people suffering from severe nerve injury
- Patients who have metastatic cancer (cancer that has spread to the bones)
- For individuals with Spondylolisthesis Grades 3 and 4
What Are the Advantages of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
- Spinal decompression reduces the susceptibility of the spine to degeneration and disintegration.
- It is a non-invasive procedure that does not require medicine and takes little time.
- It has immediate benefits, and many patients experience pain reduction after the first session.
- This method is significantly faster than any other type of spine surgery and does not require any recuperation time.
Overall, Spinal Decompression Therapy is safe and pleasant. So much so that patients generally fall asleep throughout the session.
