Back pain affects many people, often interfering with daily routines and quality of life. Among the various treatments available, spinal decompression therapy stands out as a non-surgical method for targeting pressure in the spinal discs. If you have persistent lower back or neck discomfort, you might wonder whether this therapy can offer relief. Understanding how spinal decompression works and whether it aligns with your condition is essential before committing to a treatment plan.
How Spinal Decompression Therapy Works
Spinal decompression therapy utilises a motorised traction table to stretch and push the spine, pressuring the spinal discs, which are gel-like cushions between the bones in your spine. By creating negative pressure within the discs, the therapy may help retract bulging or herniated material and promote the movement of fluids and nutrients into the affected area. The process supports healing and reduces inflammation in the surrounding nerves.
Each session typically lasts between 20 and 30 minutes, and a complete treatment plan may include multiple visits over several weeks. Practitioners customise the settings of the machine based on the patient’s condition, weight, and tolerance to achieve gradual improvements in pain and function over time.
Signs You Might Benefit from Spinal Decompression
Therapists recommend this for patients with specific conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or spinal stenosis. These issues result in nerve compression, leading to sharp pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower limbs or arms. If traditional physiotherapy and medication have not helped, decompression may offer another path to relief.
Before undergoing treatment, a full assessment is necessary. A practitioner will evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may require imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans. Patients with fractures, tumours, advanced osteoporosis, or previous spinal surgery are typically not advised to undergo spinal decompression due to safety concerns.
Common Expectations and Outcomes
People often want to know what improvements to expect from spinal decompression therapy. While responses vary, many patients report a decrease in pain and better mobility over several sessions. The traction reduces disc pressure, which can lessen nerve irritation and allow inflamed tissue to recover. However, it’s not a quick fix. Results depend on various factors, such as the severity of the issue and your commitment to the treatment itself.
In addition to therapy sessions, chiropractic clinics often recommend lifestyle adjustments such as exercise, improving posture, and avoiding prolonged sitting. Combining spinal decompression with these changes helps support the spine’s long-term health and prevents recurring discomfort.
When Spinal Decompression May Not Be Suitable
Despite its benefits, spinal decompression is not the right solution for everyone. Therapists usually deter individuals with spinal instability, spinal infections, or severe nerve damage from these procedures. Additionally, pregnant individuals or those with abdominal aortic aneurysms should avoid this therapy altogether.
If you fall into any of these categories, it’s crucial to explore alternative treatment options with a qualified healthcare provider. Manual therapy, targeted physiotherapy, and supervised rehabilitation exercises may be more appropriate and safer in such cases. Understanding your specific diagnosis and risk factors will help you make a more informed decision.
4 Key Questions to Ask Before Starting Treatment
Before committing to spinal decompression therapy, ask your practitioner the following:
- What is the expected duration of treatment?
- Were the results from previous patients with similar conditions positive?
- Will there be any risks if I undergo this procedure?
- Will I need additional therapies alongside spinal decompression?
These questions can help clarify whether the therapy aligns with your health goals and current condition.
Conclusion
If you suffer from chronic back or neck pain associated with nerve compression, spinal decompression therapy may be appropriate for you. It provides a non-invasive method for alleviating spinal pressure, which may enhance mobility and functionality. Nonetheless, to establish your suitability as a candidate, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive evaluation. Before starting treatment, always consult a trained professional.
Wondering if spinal decompression is right for you? Contact True Chiropractic to explore your options today.
