Herniated discs can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The condition happens when the soft inner part of the spinal disc protrudes through the harder outer part of the disc. This puts pressure on the nerves in the spine, causing pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the affected area.
While surgery is an option for some patients, spinal decompression is an increasingly popular treatment that offers a non-invasive, drug-free way to manage the symptoms of herniated discs.
Let’s take a closer look at spinal decompression and how it works.
What is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment that involves stretching the spine to relieve pressure on the compressed discs. The procedure can be performed manually or with the help of a machine.
The goal of spinal decompression is to create negative pressure within the disc, which can help retract the herniated disc material back into its proper position.
The treatment is typically done in a chiropractor's office, and patients may need several sessions to achieve the desired results.
Benefits of Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression has several benefits for patients suffering from herniated discs. Here are some of the advantages of the treatment:
- Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, spinal decompression is a non-invasive treatment that doesn't require any incisions or anesthesia.
- Drug-free: Spinal decompression doesn't involve the use of drugs or medications, which can have unwanted side effects.
- Pain relief: Spinal decompression can help relieve the pain caused by herniated discs.
- Improved mobility: By reducing pressure on the compressed discs, spinal decompression can improve a patient's range of motion and mobility.
- Cost-effective: Spinal decompression is often less expensive than surgery, making it a more cost-effective treatment option.
How it Works
During spinal decompression, the patient lies on a table and is secured with a harness or straps.
The chiropractor then applies a controlled pulling force to the spine, which stretches the spine and creates negative pressure within the disc. This negative pressure can help retract the herniated disc material back into its proper position.
The treatment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, and patients may need several sessions to achieve the desired results.
What to Expect
If you're considering spinal decompression for your herniated disc, here's what you can expect during the treatment.
- Consultation: Your chiropractor will first perform a thorough evaluation to determine if spinal decompression is the right treatment for your herniated disc.
- Treatment plan: If spinal decompression is recommended, your chiropractor will create a treatment plan that outlines how many sessions you'll need and what to expect during each session.
- Preparation: Before the treatment, you'll be asked to lie down on a table and wear a harness or straps that will be attached to the machine.
- Treatment: During the treatment, the machine will slowly pull your spine, creating negative pressure within the disc.
- Recovery: After the treatment, you'll rest for a few minutes before being released. You may need to attend several sessions over several weeks.
Spinal decompression is a promising treatment option for patients suffering from herniated discs. By stretching the spine and creating negative pressure within the disc, spinal decompression can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.
While the treatment isn't right for everyone, it's a non-invasive, drug-free option that can be more cost-effective than surgery.
If you're considering spinal decompression for your herniated disc call Aventura Wellness and Rehab (305) 705-0777 and let us help you on your road to recovery.