What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a type of motorized traction that helps relieve back pain by gently stretching the spine. This stretching changes the force and position of the spine, which takes pressure off the spinal discs, the gel-like cushions between the bones in your spine. Over time, negative pressure from this therapy may cause bulging or herniated disks to retract, taking pressure off nerves and other structures in your spine. This helps promote movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks so they can heal.
Conditions Treated by Spinal Decompression Therapy
- Herniated or Bulging Discs
One of the most common conditions treated with spinal decompression therapy is herniated or bulging discs. When discs herniate, they can press on nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in an arm or leg. Spinal decompression can help by creating a negative pressure that pulls the herniated or bulging disc material back into the disc and promotes healing.
- Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, our spinal discs can gradually deteriorate, which can lead to degenerative disc disease. This condition can cause pain, instability, and reduced mobility. Spinal decompression therapy helps alleviate these symptoms by relieving pressure on the spinal discs and encouraging the flow of nutrients to the disc, aiding in its recovery.
- Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and each leg. Typically, sciatica is caused by compression of a spinal nerve in the lower back. Decompression therapy can relieve this compression, easing the pain and associated symptoms.
- Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of spaces in the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, muscle weakness, and impaired bowel and bladder control. Decompression therapy can increase the space between vertebrae, thereby reducing pressure on the affected nerves.
- Facet Syndrome
Facet syndrome is an arthritis-like condition of the spine that can contribute to back pain. It occurs when the facet joints become stressed and damaged. Spinal decompression helps by gently stretching the spine and reducing pressure on the facet joints, alleviating pain and helping restore normal movement.
- Post-surgical Pain
Interestingly, spinal decompression therapy can also be beneficial for certain individuals experiencing pain following back surgery. It’s an alternative for those who wish to avoid additional surgeries and prefer a non-invasive approach.
How Does It Work?
During a spinal decompression session at Trinity Advanced Health, you will lie on a therapy table, fully clothed. A harness is placed around your hips and attached to the table near your feet. The upper part of the table remains fixed while the lower part, to which the harness is attached, slides back and forth to provide the traction and relaxation needed.
The therapy sessions typically last 10 to 20 minutes, and most treatment plans include multiple sessions over several weeks. Many patients experience significant pain relief after just a few treatments, which can be a crucial factor in improving quality of life.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you’re suffering from back pain or other related conditions, spinal decompression therapy at Trinity Advanced Health might be the solution you need. By addressing the root cause of spinal conditions non-surgically, this therapy offers a promising alternative to more invasive treatments. Our dedicated team is here to help guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the personalized care needed to get back to your daily activities without pain.
