Physio Logic’s Head Chiropractor, Dr. Stephen Szaro describes how Decompression Therapy is used to treat a variety of Spinal Disc Conditions.
The intervertebral discs (IVD’s), or spinal discs, are situated between each vertebrae of the spinal column. The IVD is a fibrocartilaginous cushion serving as the spine’s shock-absorbing system and assists with fluid motion of the spine.
Disc Anatomy
The IVD is composed of two major layers including the annulus fibrosis and the nucleus pulposus. The annulus is the tough outer layer of the IVD that surrounds the nucleus, which has a higher content of water than the annulus. Think of the IVD as a jelly donut with the annulus acting as the dough and the nucleus acting as the jelly. The IVD can be a source of pain within the spine or extremities depending on the nature of the injury or episode.
Conditions Associated With Disc Injury
Bulging or herniation of the IVD into the intervertebral foramen can put pressure on or cause irritation to the spinal nerves. When this occurs it can cause local pain in the region or more commonly, radiating pain into the arms or legs. If the injured disc is in the neck or cervical spine it can cause shooting pain, numbness, tingling or burning sensations into the arms, commonly a specific region of the arm. If the injured disc is in the lower back or lumbar spine it can cause these symptoms into the legs. Patients will often also notice weakness in the arms or legs because the spinal nerves innervate the muscles, which allows for precise motor control.
DECOMPRESSION THERAPY
Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical procedure that effectively treats disabling pain in the lower back, neck, radiating arms & legs, as well as headaches. Decompression Therapy is a highly successful treatment for patients suffering from bulging, herniated, degenerative, or ruptured discs, as well as sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and many failed back surgery cases. It does this by reducing the pressure on spinal discs and facet joints through unloading created by distraction and positioning.
How Does Decompression Therapy Work?
It effectively enhances the healing process and often renders quick, effective, and amazing pain relief that enables most patients to return to a more active lifestyle. Research to develop this procedure was conducted by prominent physicians, engineers and technicians at major teaching hospitals. This treatment helps patients avoid the risk of anesthesia, surgical complications, and the potential of failed back surgery.
Decompression Therapy begins with a series of sessions, typically 2-3 times per week. Each session is approximately 8-12 minutes. During each session, electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and therapeutic laser may be applied to help relax muscles and promote further healing of injured tissues. After treatment, your doctor may prescribe specific exercises designed to help you regain proper control and strength of the stabilization muscles which can help create long term benefits.
Decompression is administered to patients fully clothed either face down or face up on the table. Clinical studies suggest Decompression Therapy provides a majority of qualified candidates with initial relief within just a few sessions. This proven, non-surgical approach could help you find the pain relief you need.
For more information on how you can benefit from Decompression Therapy, schedule an appointment with one of our qualified doctors today. Fill out the form below to get started.