What is Spinal Decompression?
The structure of one’s spine includes an intervertebral disc between the vertebrae. The intervertebral discs are prone to degeneration and injury as they are compressed and twisted through daily activities. As the disc degenerates, the gel-like nucleus loses its hydration, reducing disc height and creating the possibility of facet syndrome and lateral foraminal stenosis. Damaged intervertebral discs seldom heal because they remain under constant pressure, even while a person is at rest. It is widely accepted that the ideal environment to improve disc pathology is to decompress or reduce the intradiscal pressures of the damaged disc. The goal of reducing intradiscal pressure is to enhance the osmotic diffusion of fluids and nutrients across the endplates into the disc, furthering the body’s natural healing abilities. Additionally, reduction of intradiscal pressures may help draw the nucleus pulposus of a herniated disc back into its center, reducing disc bulge or herniation and thereby relieving pressure on a compressed nerve root—alleviating the problem and the pain.
It is generally recognized that achieving decompression* depends upon the ability to distract the spine without eliciting reflex muscle contractions or spasms. Spinal decompression tables are equipped with computerized controls and mechanisms, including sensors that measure resistance in the patient’s body during treatment. This helps to prevent guarding, or muscle tensing and contractions, that can actually exacerbate back pain, rather than relieving it. During a spinal decompression therapy treatment, the patient is set up on a machine that pulls and relaxes on a targeted area of the back. The gentle expansion of the spine decompresses the discs between each vertebra by creating negative pressure within the disc. This pulls ruptured or herniated disc material back inside of the disc, as well as fluids and nutrients that promote accelerated healing.
Does it Work?
It is commonly recognized that achieving decompression depends upon the ability to distract the spine without eliciting reflex muscle contractions or spasms. A computer controlled biofeedback response adjusts distractive forces at an astounding rate of 20 milliseconds (the human neurological response is approximately 50 milliseconds), or 50 times per second.
Who Benefits from Spinal Decompression?
Again, it all depends on the individual and whether or not this treatment is right for your condition. It will depend on a professional diagnosis, the state of your spinal condition.
However, at a few clinics in Ontario, like Dundas Chiropractic, patients who are suitable for this treatment can start experiencing pain relief after the first session. This treatment removes pressure from the nerves, easing the pain. Your spine is decompressed in a safe and effective manner by professionals who have been doing this for years with great success. You’ll also be instructed through various exercises that will further aid in healing the spine.
If you’re experiencing neck stiffness, sciatica, lower back pain, numbness, leg pain, arthritis, bulging or herniated spinal disc, a nerve pinch or anything of the sort, then consider talking to your doctor or chiropractor about how spinal decompression can help.
At Dundas Chiropractic Center, we have back specialists who have your best interests in mind. Located in Oakville, Ontario, we accept any patients who are experiencing chronic pain that other medical alternatives just can’t fix. With services that include non-surgical spinal decompression, massage therapy, orthotics and foot care, acupuncture and more, call or visit our website to book your first appointment with us. New chiropractic patients are also eligible to receive 15% off their first visit with us, so make the call today!