If you suffer from chronic back pain, you know how debilitating the condition can be. Like most patients, you may have tried many treatment options to find relief. Many treatments offer temporary relief, and others may result in various side effects.

Spinal decompression can provide relief for back pain. The surgical or non-surgical treatment helps to take pressure off parts of the spine.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

The spinal column provides support for the body. It has bones, known as vertebrae, with ligaments and spinal discs to keep the spine flexible. The spine has a nerve pathway down the middle of the disks and ligaments.

Spinal degeneration (wear and tear) or injuries can result in pain. Compression in the spine causes pain as it puts pressure on nerves or the spinal cord. Spinal decompression can help relieve pressure, reducing the pain.

Non-surgical Spinal Decompression

Non-surgical spinal decompression involves the use of traction to relieve back pain. It works by stretching the spine gently, changing its force and position. The change takes the pressure off the gel-like cushions (spinal disks) between the bones, creating negative pressure.

The herniated or bulging discs retract, taking pressure off the nerves and other spinal structures. It boosts the movement of oxygen, water, and nutrients into the discs, which promotes healing.

What Does Spinal Decompression Treat

Spinal decompression can help treat various conditions. It can help to treat:

• Neck and back pain

• Sciatica, which is weakness, pain, or tingling that moves down the leg

• Herniated, bulging, or degenerative disks

• Posterior facet syndrome (worn spinal joints)

• Diseased or injured spinal nerve roots
  
  

Doctors recommend spinal decompression as an alternative to other non-surgical options, such as limited rest, physical therapy, and exercise.

Spinal Decompression Procedure

Patients remain fully clothed during spinal decompression. The specialist fits harnesses around the patient’s torso and pelvis. The patient lies face-up on a special table. The table is computer-controlled using the patient specific settings put in place by the chiropractor. The treatment lasts about 30 minutes, and patients usually require 20 therapy sessions over several weeks. The specialist can offer heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation alongside spinal decompression.

People who should not get spinal decompression include those with conditions such as:

• Tumors

• Fractures

• Metal implants

• Advanced osteoporosis

• Aortic aneurysms
  
  

Your healthcare provider can recommend the best treatment option for you. Chiropractic care can help realign the spinal bones, easing pain.
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For more on spinal decompression, visit M Powered Chiropractic at our office in Georgetown, Texas. Call (512) 548-4355 to book an appointment today.