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Spinal Decompression Therapy
At our office we have a unique state of the art treatment system for Herniated or Bulging Discs of the Lower Back and Neck.
First, let's look at the definition: An intervertebral disc (or intervertebral fibrocartilage) lies between adjacent vertebrae in the vertebral column. Each disc forms a fibrocartilaginous joint (a symphysis), to allow slight movement of the vertebrae, to act as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together, and to function as a shock absorber for the spine.
A spinal disk is like a jelly donut, with a softer center encased within a tougher exterior.
There are a total of twenty-three vertebral discs in the spinal column. Specific problems with any of these discs may prompt unique symptoms, including pain that originates in the disc itself and/or pain that is related to the disc pressing on a nearby nerve.
If we look at an axial or overhead view of a disc we can notice the outer band of Annulous Fibers that hold the jelly like substance the Nucleous Pulpous contained.
Trauma to a Disc or overuse can cause a disc to start coming through the Annulous Fibers hitting the nerve root. The more the disc comes out the more severe it is. Difference between a bulge and herniation is how far that disc comes out causing the Annulous to tear.
If we take a force and pull up on the top vertebra of the disc and a force and pull down on the bottom vertebra of the same disc we will separate the disc allowing the center of the nucleus to retract back in actually bringing the disc back to it's normal position thus taking the pressure off the nerve root. A common question people ask is why do I have pain or numbness down my legs or arms. The answer is easy, different nerve roots effect different areas. The nerves of the neck effect the arm, hands and fingers and the nerves of the back effect the legs, feet and toes.
Spinal decompression stretches the specific area of the spine taking the pressure off of the disc allowing the disc to decompress or unload. Through this process of decompression reinvigorating fluid, nutrients and oxygen are absorbed by the disc and metabolic waste is pushed out. The disc uses this natural diffusion/imbibition cycle to maintain it's integrity. As the disc decompresses the pressure comes off the nerves taking away the symptoms of pain and numbness.
Decompression is very gentle and comfortable and effective in treating Disc Bulges and Herniation of the cervical or lumbar spine. Sessions typically last 10-15 minutes. Decompression affords an additional mechanical alternative treatment option for patients seeking advice and therapeutic solution for a recently diagnosed disc herniation or nerve root irritation. Due to the low force it is safe for all ages. It should always be the first treatment option as it involves no drugs or surgery and has a 91% rate of success with patients. If you are interested in seeing if this treatment could be the answer for your neck, back or sciatica pain as well as your degenerative, bulging or herniated discs call us today to schedule a consultation. We'd love to help!