What is Chiropractic Decompression?
Chiropractic decompression focuses on improving the spinal nerve function by diminishing pressure through manual adjustment and devices. Nerve compression is commonly caused by bulging discs, bone spurs, and other degenerative spine conditions. Depending on the severity of the condition and the health of the individual, chiropractic decompression can be a great treatment option for patients suffering from nerve compression.
Chiropractors believe that the body’s overall health is supported by a fully aligned spinal column. Since spinal nerve compression occurs when displaced spinal anatomy causes narrowing of nerve pathways, a chiropractor would try to achieve nerve decompression by manipulating the vertebrae and discs back into their proper positions.
Chiropractic Decompression Tables and Manual Adjustment
Decompression tables are sometimes used during a chiropractic decompression session. Some tables rely on inversion, while others use traction devices that stretch the spinal column and pull protruding bones or discs back into place. New models for decompression traction use the vacuum effect of negative pressure to achieve pain relief. Manual manipulation is also used to align shifted vertebrae and some chiropractors also perform massage treatment to relax muscles and stimulate blood flow. However, because traction and manipulation do not permanently remove the source of compression, relief is often temporary. Typically, chiropractic decompression will become a recurring treatment in order for it to provide lasting relief for a patient.
What Conditions Can be Treated Through Chiropractic Decompression?
Many conditions could benefit from chiropractic decompression since it can realign problem areas and give them the opportunity to heal themselves. If you have any of the following conditions, you can consider chiropractic decompression treatment:
- Bulging disc
- Bone spurs
- Arthritis
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Disc protrusion
- Collapsed disc
While many patients can benefit from chiropractic decompression surgery, it might not be the same option for all patients. Before considering visiting a chiropractor, you should consult with your doctor to ensure it is the best option for you.
Benefits of Chiropractic Decompression Treatment
Chiropractic decompression is a great option for a variety of conditions. Some benefits of chiropractic decompression includes:
- Noninvasive
- Does not involve pills, injections, or any other controlled substances
- Is performed by a licensed professional who is trained to recognize serious health issues that should be referred to a doctor
- Is holistic, which means a chiropractor will look at your condition as a whole-body issue and offer advice on stress relief, nutrition, and other lifestyle factors
Alternate Treatment Options
Nonsurgical treatment methods for your neck or back pain should consist of a range of approaches. For example, if you do try chiropractic decompression therapy, your primary care doctor may recommend complementing this with over-the-counter pain medication, low-impact exercise, and hot/cold compression therapy. In the event that conservative treatment has proven ineffective after several weeks or months, your doctor may ask you to consider surgery.
Before committing to the risks and lengthy recovery of a traditional open spine surgery, contact BEST Health System. Our team of board-certified orthopaedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons perform minimally invasive decompression procedures.
Reach out to BEST Health System
If you are interested in learning more about chiropractic decompression, reach out to our team at BEST Health System and get started on your path to recovery. The BEST is yet to come.
