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Spinal Decompression Therapy: An Overview

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment option for individuals experiencing chronic back pain, neck pain, or sciatica. This therapy involves stretching the spine and relieving pressure on the vertebrae and discs, which can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.

The spine is made up of vertebrae, discs, and nerves that are responsible for supporting the body and facilitating movement. Over time, the spine can experience several conditions that cause it to become compressed, such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis. These conditions can cause pain, discomfort, and limited mobility, making everyday activities difficult to perform. Though, with the help of spinal decompression therapy, it can help alleviate these pains and discomfort over time. 

How Does Spinal Decompression Therapy Work

Spinal decompression therapy involves the use of a specialized table that gently stretches the spine, which helps to create negative pressure within the discs. This negative pressure can help relieve pressure on the spinal nerves, which can reduce pain and improve mobility. Therapy is usually performed for about 30 minutes at a time, with several sessions needed to achieve the desired results.

How Can Spinal Decompression Therapy Help You

This therapy is a non-invasive and drug-free alternative to surgical procedures and can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Herniated discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica
• Pinched nerves
• Low back pain
• Neck pain

Additionally, spinal decompression therapy is often performed in combination with other therapies to maximize its benefits and achieve the best possible outcomes. 

Some examples of these therapies include: 

• Spinal adjustments: A chiropractor will use gentle manual force to adjust the spinal vertebrae into their proper alignment. This can help to reduce pressure on the discs and nerves, allowing them to heal and reducing the symptoms of spinal decompression.
• Physical therapy: To increase mobility, reduce muscle tension, and relieve spinal pressure, chiropractors may use other manual techniques, such as massage and stretches.
• Acupuncture: The insertion of needles into certain acupoints can help to relieve the pressure on the spinal nerves due to herniated discs or other spinal problems. This is thought to be achieved by promoting the relaxation of the muscles surrounding the spine and reducing inflammation, which can help reduce compression on the nerves.
• Traction: This type of therapy involves gently stretching the spine to relieve pressure on the spinal discs, nerves, and other structures. This can help alleviate symptoms such as back pain, sciatica, and other conditions that result from spinal compression.

While spinal decompression therapy can be effective for many individuals, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a professional chiropractor to determine if this therapy is right for you.

For the past 40 years, Miami chiropractor Michael P. Newman (D.C., P.A.) has successfully helped patients with all their physical pain. Call to schedule your appointment today at 305-666-1402.

Sources

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10874-spinal-decompression-therapy 

https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-spinal-decompression