As we age, our spine is more susceptible to strain or injury that can lead to herniated discs. The job of these discs is to provide a cushion for the bones along the spinal column, so when they become herniated, this causes severe pain in the neck or lower back. Individuals with a herniated disc may also experience nerve pain that radiates down their arms or legs.
For those in this situation, they may think that their only options for relief are medication that masks their symptoms and surgeries that are both costly and risky. But that isn’t the case. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, which involves the manual manipulation of the spine, there are a variety of chiropractic treatments available that can improve the spine’s overall function and eliminate pain.
What to Expect from Spinal Decompression Therapy
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy is a painless and noninvasive procedure that helps patients return to normal function and get back to living a pain-free life. This gentle, proven therapy is effective in the rehabilitation of spinal disc injury and is currently one of the safest and most reliable therapies available.
Patients who are experiencing a pinched nerve, sciatica, neck pain, lower back pain, or symptoms related to damaged, bulging or degenerative discs could benefit a great deal from decompression therapy. It can also be used to treat syndromes of the lumbar and cervical spine.
During a spinal decompression therapy treatment, a patient lies on a therapeutic table and is strapped to a padded harness. They are monitored by a chiropractor as the device gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on the spinal discs.
How it Works
Throughout the process, fluid from the outside of the disc is sucked back into the disc. Once the disc rehydrates, and the size of the disc space gets larger, there’s more space for nerves to exit the spine. The nerve will begin healing when it’s no longer being compressed or pinched.
The number of required treatment sessions varies among patients, depending on the severity of the injured or diseased disc. Sometimes patients are better after only four treatments, and other times it may take 20 treatments. Every individual is unique.
Not everyone is a candidate for spinal decompression therapy; for example, individuals with artificial discs or conditions that compromise the structure of the spine. If you’re experiencing pain in your neck or back, discuss your condition with a chiropractor, who can help you determine its cause and the proper treatment method to get you back to your normal life.
About the Author
Greater Orlando Chiropractic & Wellness is located in the heart of Winter Garden between the historic district and Winter Garden Village. The practice specializes in spinal decompression therapy, chiropractic adjustments and other therapies that help patients improve their lives. For more information, visit GOCWChiro.com.