Spinal decompression therapy is often the course of action when a patient is experiencing chronic back pain. There is more than one way to achieve pain relief for constant and even chronic pain. Many times severe pain can be debilitating which leads to everything else being harder to focus on. Getting treatment sooner than later will make sure that you get on to leading a more productive life.
What is spinal decompression or neurological spinal decompression?
The treatment process “spinal decompression” helps to change the position of the spine as well as create stretch and flex motion. This alleviates some of the pressure exerted onto the gel cushioning sections between the vertebrae of the spine.
When “negative pressure” is exerted onto these cushions of the spine acting in the opposite manner to its current state, it can relief pain. For example, the chiropractor gently guides the spinal stretches for the spine to change the position and force.
This treatment can improve the water, oxygen and nutrition flow and intake which leads to healing.
Why opt for non-surgical spinal decompression?
- It is less invasive
- More affordable than surgery
- It is effective and can treat mild to moderate neck pain, chronic back pain, and sciatica
- The treatment may help improve and manage diseased spinal nerve roots
What is the process of non-surgical spinal decompression?
There are various electronic tools used during the spinal decompression session. This includes an electronically operated table on which the patient will lie on. They are also strapped in with a harness which will help with positioning during the treatment session. Sessions last about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the severity of the case.
Electrical stimulation is also used to contract and relax certain muscles of the affected area. Ultrasound treatment helps to generate heat and encourage healing. Hence chiropractors may use heat or cold therapy where needed. Again, each patient is different and their treatments are customised to their needs.
Not everyone may qualify for non-surgical treatment these include the following patients:
- Fractures
- Tumours
- Abdominal aortic aneurisms
- Metallic spinal implants
- Pregnant women
If you are not sure that you qualify, your doctor will do an assessment and will recommend the best options for you in terms of tailor-made treatment. Surgery options for spinal conditions include:
Laminectomy
In this process the surgeon will remove part or the entire bone forming the spinal disk
Disektomy
Only a small portion is removed from the spinal disk to take the pressure off the nerves
Foramitonomy (also referred to as Foraminectomy)
During this procedure, the surgeon will remove bone and tissue in order to create more space for the nerve roots. This will also relieve any pressure previously exerted on the nerve roots.
Surgeries always pose risks and even though it may have success rates, some of the risks are high. Risks include excessive bleeding, infections post surgery, blood clots, nerve and tissue damage as well as allergic reactions to the anaesthesia.
What to do?
Speak to your chiropractor about non-invasive, non-surgical spinal decompression treatment to help you manage pain.
FAQ – Spinal Decompression Therapy
What is the success rate of spinal decompression?
Eighty six – ninety two percent success rate
How long does spinal decompression last?
35min – 45min depending on patient
Can Spinal Decompression hurt you?
Its very rare a patient will feel any pain however you will feel a stretch in the spine