Disc Decompression
PAIN TREATMENT
Disc Decompression: Pain Management
Spinal decompression therapy offers hope for individuals struggling with debilitating neck and back pain. This non-surgical treatment method is popular due to its effectiveness in alleviating chronic pain due to spinal conditions such as herniated or bulging discs, sciatica or degenerative disc disease.[1]
Here, we’ll examine how spinal decompression works, its benefits and why you should seek treatment through reputable pain management clinics.
How Spinal Decompression Therapy Works
Decompression therapy creates negative pressure within the spinal discs, allowing bulging or herniated gel-like discs to retract.[2] The spine is gently and slowly stretched on a spinal traction table to relieve pressure on the discs and surrounding nerves.[2] This method alleviates pressure and allows the affected area to be flooded with nutrient-rich fluid to encourage natural healing and pain relief.
You’ll remain fully clothed and comfortable while lying on a table during treatment.[2] Treatment lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, and your provider will schedule you for an appointment one to three times a week for several weeks.[2]. The frequency of your visits will gradually taper down as you feel relief and the healthcare provider observes marked improvement. Other complementary treatments, such as ultrasound therapy, heat or cold therapy or electrical stimulation, may be administered during this time.[2]
Conditions Treated with Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal traction therapy provides a nonsurgical solution for various spinal conditions, including:
- Herniated discs[2]
- Slipped or bulging discs[2]
- Degenerative Disc Disease[1]
- Sciatica[2]
- Facet syndrome[2]
- Spinal Stenosis[1]
- Pinched nerves[1]
Benefits of Spinal Disc Decompression
The benefits of disc decompression therapy extend beyond pain relief. Patients often experience increased mobility, enhanced spinal alignment, and reduced reliance on medication or invasive procedures.[1] Most importantly, this non-surgical approach eliminates the risks associated with traditional surgical interventions, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative for long-term spinal health.[3]
Spinal Traction Therapy
Choosing a pain management clinic rather than a chiropractic practice offers several advantages when seeking disc decompression services. Specially trained pain physicians are on staff and have access to advanced diagnostic tools to diagnose various spinal conditions. Comprehensive treatment options, such as medications, physical therapy, and minimally invasive procedures, are available to optimize your results beyond spinal traction therapy. You’ll receive safe, personalized, evidence-based treatments monitored by pain management practitioners.
While chiropractic care may be helpful to some, consulting a pain management doctor ensures comprehensive medical care, specialized expertise, and a broader range of treatment options to address spinal conditions effectively.
Resources:
- Spinal Decompression Therapy: Lower Back Pain & Back Pain Relief. Cleveland Clinic [Internet]. Accessed May 01, 2024. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10874-spinal-decompression-therapy
- WebMD Editorial Contributors. Spinal Decompression Therapy. WebMD [Internet]. Accessed May 01, 2024. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/spinal-decompression-therapy-surgical-nonsurgical
- Kassel G. What Is Spinal Decompression? Types, Benefits, Next Steps. Healthline [Internet]. January 25, 2023. Accessed May 01, 2024. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-spinal-decompression