How Does Decompression Work?

Back pain is a problem experienced by millions of people. For those who suffer from constant low back pain, even the simplest tasks can be excruciating. In some cases, surgery can relieve chronic and continuous back pain, but not everyone is a strong candidate or willing to take the risk. For pain sufferers looking for an alternative to surgery, spinal decompression may be the answer. Spinal decompression is used by our Catonsville chiropractors to treat back pain, but how does it work?

Computer Controlled

Spinal decompression treatments are controlled by computers to slowly pull and relax the spine. Advanced treatments allow chiropractors to target specific discs of the spine and use less force when working on a specific problem area. The computer system also enables chiropractors to control the angle of force and the amount of time force is applied. Depending on the unit used, patients lie on either stomach or back.

Relieve Nerve Pressure and Increase Blood Flow

The theory behind spinal decompression is straightforward: relieving pressure on the nerves in the back will decrease back pain. Slowly, vertebrae are separated and pressure on discs is reduced. Stretching increases the space between vertebrae, brings blood flow to herniated discs, and promotes natural healing – thereby avoiding surgery. It is believed that spinal decompression creates negative pressure, which pulls bulging discs into place and alleviates pain.

Slow but Effective

Back pain caused by herniated discs can either happen quickly or build over time. The non-invasive pain relief provided by spinal decompression generally occurs throughout a number of treatment appointments. Decompression works slowly to allow the discs to heal and reshape themselves. Spinal decompression eventually brings nutrients to the weakened discs. The natural healing process begins and continues as nutrients and blood allow for new cartilage fibers to be laid between vertebrae. The treatment benefits people with reoccurring back pain or continued pain after failed back surgery.

Are there Risks?

Spinal decompression is safe and non-invasive. It is a comfortable and slow procedure controlled by a chiropractor. Some patients may experience muscle spasms, but there are no real side effects or risks from the treatment. There are some instances in which certain patients are not good candidates for the treatment, such as those who are pregnant. It is also advisable to consider health history and past surgeries.

For questions about spinal decompression, how it works, and whether it is a treatment you’d like to try, contact Johnson Chiropractic. Johnson Chiropractic hopes to help you find relief from herniated discs, bulging discs, and back pain.