Spinal Decompression Therapy is a noninvasive, nonsurgical treatment that alleviates pain caused by herniated and bulging discs. The therapy uses a machine that gently stretches the spine, allowing herniated discs to slip back into their original slots in the vertebrae, which helps relieve pressure on nerves. Patients usually notice significant pain relief and a return to normal activity after multiple sessions of spinal decompression therapy.
A herniated or bulging disc in the lumbar (lower) or cervical (upper) spine can put pressure on nerves that connect to the rest of the body, which can cause severe pain and numbness or tingling in your arms or legs. In some cases, a herniated disc can even cause sciatica, a condition that causes pain in your lower back, buttocks, and down the outside of your leg into your foot.
During the session, you lie on a table while the machine does all the work. The machine is controlled by a computer, and it gently stretches your spine, creating space between the vertebrae that allows fluid to enter the discs that have been constricted. This process allows the herniated portion of the disk to retract, which eases pressure on nerves and promotes healing.
Spinal decompression therapy https://www.theorlandochiropractor.com/spinal-decompression-therapy can also help prevent or delay the need for spinal surgery, such as a spinal fusion or discectomy. If you have a herniated or bulging disc, spinal stenosis, neck pain, or shoulder pain, talk to your doctor about whether this treatment is right for you.
Before beginning spinal decompression therapy, a physician may perform a physical examination and medical imaging tests, such as an MRI or X-rays, to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You should consider spinal decompression therapy if you have chronic back, hip, or knee pain that doesn’t respond to at-home treatments and other therapies.
If you are a candidate for spinal decompression therapy, your doctor will recommend a schedule of treatment sessions, which usually consists of several sessions per week for four weeks. Typically, the number of treatments will decrease as you experience pain relief and progress through the treatment plan.
After spinal decompression therapy, you should continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations for a healthy lifestyle, such as maintaining proper posture while sitting and standing, and using good body mechanics when lifting or carrying heavy objects. You should also stay hydrated and keep track of your symptoms, such as any changes in intensity or frequency, so you can report them to your doctor if necessary. You should also avoid activities that can place excessive stress on the spine, such as bending or twisting, for a few weeks after your treatment.