Can Spinal Decompression Therapy Relieve Back Pain?

If you experience back pain, you know how uncomfortable and disruptive it can be. Finding relief must be at the top of your mind every day. Most people turn to chiropractic and other alternative therapies to help with chronic back pain. 

Healthcare providers help determine the best treatment for each patient. Spinal decompression can offer pain relief by taking pressure off the spine. 

Spinal Decompression 

Spinal decompression therapy can be surgical or nonsurgical. The procedure can reduce back pain by taking pressure off the spinal neural elements. The spine consists of bones known as vertebrae, with discs and ligaments that help keep it flexible. 

The structure offers support for the body, with the spinal column providing a pathway for nerves. Spine degeneration or injuries can cause extreme pain. The pain may be due to compression that applies pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. Spinal decompression helps relieve the pressure, easing the pain. 

Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression 

Spinal decompression involves the use of motorized traction that helps relieve pain. The chiropractor uses the device to gently stretch the patient’s spine, changing the position and force of the spine. The process involves creating negative pressure, taking pressure off the gel-like cushions or spinal discs connecting the bones. 

It can cause herniated discs to retract, taking the pressure off the nerves and other spinal structures. The procedure helps boost the movement of oxygen, water, and nutrients into the discs, promoting healing. 

Conditions Treated With Spinal Decompression 

Spinal decompression can help treat various conditions, including:

• Lower back pain.
• Neck pain.
• Sciatica. 
• Bulging discs. 
• Herniated discs.
• Degenerative disk disease.
• Spinal stenosis.
• Diseases or injured spinal nerve roots.
• Posterior facet syndrome, or worn spinal joints.

The effectiveness of decompression therapy varies depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. 

Spinal Decompression Procedure 

The spinal decompression therapy is performed in the office. The fully-clothed patient lies face up or face down on a special computerized table. The chiropractor fits a harness around the patient’s pelvis and trunk and uses the computer to customize the treatment. The treatment can last 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the patient’s needs. Most people require between 20 to 28 treatment sessions over several weeks. 

Relieving Back Pain With Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is effective for relieving back pain. However, the results of the procedure will depend on the cause of the pain or underlying health conditions. Health practitioners will examine the patients’ injuries to determine if they qualify for the treatment. 

Noninvasive therapies can provide relief without turning to medication or surgery. The therapy is unsuitable for patients with tumors, fractures, advanced osteoporosis, metal implants, and other medical conditions. 

There are several treatment options for relieving back pain. In some cases, acute pain may go away without treatment, but chronic pain requires treatment. A chiropractor can help you choose the procedure that works for you based on various factors. Tests lead to a better understanding of your injury to determine the best treatment. 

For more on whether spinal decompression therapy can relieve back pain, visit Garmone Chiropractic at our Depew, New York office. Call (716) 668-5400 to schedule an appointment today.