What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is principally recommended for back pain. Unlike the traditional method of manual manipulation, spinal decompression is performed using a traction device, which is usually a motorized or manually adjusted piece of equipment. Spinal decompression shouldn’t be confused with complex spinal decompression surgery, which is an invasive procedure. Spinal decompression is completely non-invasive and will not restrict your day-to-day activities.
How Is Spinal Decompression Performed?
Spinal decompression is carried out on a special table to which the patient will be secured. This table is then moved in a specific way to cause gentle stretching of the spine. This stretching reduces pressure on the intervertebral discs – the soft discs that allow us to bend and twist, and that act as shock absorbers for the spine. Spinal decompression is usually recommended for patients suffering from back pain where one or more of these discs have slipped out of place (herniated) and are causing pressure on the surrounding nerves.
Benefits Of Spinal Decompression
There are a variety of benefits associated with spinal decompression. These include, but aren’t limited to the following:
Tailored Treatment Plan
It may be a cliché but, no two patients are the same, and so neither should two treatment plans be. Your chiropractor will examine you, discuss your situation, and from there, design a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. They’ll also be willing to adapt the treatment if your needs change.
Anesthetic-Free And Non-Invasive
A procedure recognized and approved by the FDA, spinal decompression requires no needles, no anesthesia, and therefore has none of the potential risks or complications associated with being administered an anesthetic. Following the procedure, some patients do report a mild level of discomfort, but this is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about.
Faster Healing Time
Spinal decompression creates more space around the intervertebral discs. This is beneficial as it boosts blood flow, enabling more nutrients to reach the affected area which accelerates the healing process and reduces inflammation.
No Side Effects
Being a drug-free procedure, spinal decompression is free from the risk of any side effects from anesthetic or medications.
Accessible And Affordable
This treatment is widely available and may cost less than you would think, and of course, your chiropractor would be happy to inform you of the costs. Also, it is worth checking with your insurance provider to see if it is covered by your individual policy.
High Patient Suitability
Since it is low-risk, drug and anesthetic free, and has zero side effects, spinal decompression is suitable for the vast majority of patients who would benefit from this chiropractic procedure. Your practitioner will be able to advise regarding your individual suitability.
A Versatile Treatment That Can Assist With Several Conditions
Spinal decompression is a very versatile technique that can help relieve various musculoskeletal conditions that a patient may have been diagnosed with, including:
- Whiplash
- Herniated Disc(s)
- Sciatica
- Lumbar Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Posterior Facet Syndrome
If you have any questions regarding spinal decompression or to find out if you are a suitable candidate, call Stiegler Chiropractic and Rehabilitation at (740) 454-2729 to reach our office in Zanesville, Ohio.