Spinal decompression is a non-invasive and drug-free therapy that involves gently stretching the spine with the goal of relieving back pain and / or leg pain.
This is usually done on a traction table or similar motorized device. Lower back pain may be the result of pressure and compression on your spinal cord. Spinal decompression aims to lessen this pressure and ease the lower back pain.
Spinal Decompression
Your spine provides support for the rest of your body. It consists of bones, ligaments, and spinal disks that keep it flexible. Spinal Decompression works by stretching the spine. This changes the position of the spine, which takes pressure off the spinal discs by creating negative pressure in the disc.
As a result, bulging or herniated discs may retract, taking pressure off the nerves in your spine. This helps promote the movement of healing nutrients such as water, oxygen, and other fluids into the disks so they can heal.
The reason spinal decompression is so effective at treating lower back pain is because spinal decompression treats the source of the pain instead of just masking the symptoms. Spinal decompression helps bulging or herniated discs affecting the lower back return to their proper locations for long-term relief. Pressure is released off the nerves and inflammation is reduced.
Conditions Treated by Spinal Decompression
We now know how effective spinal decompression can be at relieving lower back pain.
It also helps provide relief for patients with the following:
- Sciatica
- Spinal Stenosis
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Injured or affected nerves in the spine
Spinal decompression generally does not cause pain or discomfort. On average treatments last about 45 minutes. Many people experience decreased pain after only 1 treatment. It’s typically best to undergo additional appointments to see best results.
Preventing Lower Back Pain
Sometimes a strong defense is the best offense. What this means is that preventing lower back pain is easier than treating it. A few of the best options in preventing lower back pain include:
- Strengthening your back – This is best accomplished with back exercises and stretching. Yoga is a great way to stretch and simultaneously strengthen your back muscles, while also improving your posture.
- Watch Your Weight – Maintaining a healthy weight lowers your risk of back pain.
- Get Plenty of Calcium and Vitamin D – Getting enough calcium and vitamin D can help keep your bones strong and prevent certain diseases such as osteoporosis, which makes your bones weaker.
If you want to learn more about how spinal decompression may help alleviate lower back pain, please call us at 727-866-4420.