Spinal Decompression Therapy

The Science Behind Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression therapy is grounded in the principles of biomechanics and neurophysiology. The spine is composed of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and nerve pathways, all of which work together to provide structural support and movement while protecting the spinal cord. Over time, spinal discs can become compressed due to aging, repetitive strain, poor posture, or injury. This compression can lead to disc herniation, nerve impingement, and chronic pain.

During spinal decompression therapy, controlled mechanical forces are applied to the spine, creating a negative intradiscal pressure. This negative pressure stimulates a process called imbibition, where spinal discs absorb nutrients and hydration, allowing them to regain volume and elasticity. The decompressive effect also promotes circulation to spinal tissues, reducing inflammation and encouraging cellular repair.

Additionally, spinal decompression influences nerve function by relieving pressure on compressed nerve roots. When a nerve is compressed, it can cause pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates to different parts of the body. By reducing nerve compression, spinal decompression therapy restores proper nerve signaling and improves overall mobility and function.

Conditions Treated with Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal Decompression Therapy has been clinically validated to be effective in treating various spinal conditions, including:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: When a spinal disc becomes damaged or displaced, it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain and discomfort. Spinal decompression relieves this pressure, allowing the disc to heal naturally.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs in our spine can shrink and lose their cushioning effect. Spinal decompression helps alleviate pressure on the bones and nerves, reducing pain associated with this condition.
• Sciatica: Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, causing pain that radiates down the lower back and legs. Decompression therapy helps reduce the compression, easing sciatic pain.
• Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves. Decompression therapy widens the space between the vertebrae, reducing this pressure and relieving pain.
• Facet Syndrome: Facet joints are the joints between the vertebrae, and facet syndrome occurs when these joints become inflamed. Decompression therapy helps alleviate the stress on the joints, reducing inflammation and pain.
• Chronic Lower Back or Neck Pain: If you have been experiencing persistent pain that has not responded to other treatments, Spinal Decompression Therapy could provide the relief you need.

Comparison with Other Spinal Treatments

Spinal decompression therapy is one of several treatment options for spinal conditions. Below is a comparison of how it differs from other common approaches:

1. Spinal Decompression vs. Chiropractic Adjustments

• Spinal Decompression: Focuses on gently stretching the spine to create space between the vertebrae and relieve pressure on discs.
• Chiropractic Adjustments: Involves quick, controlled thrusts to realign the spine and improve joint mobility.
• Best For: Chronic disc issues, nerve compression, herniated discs (spinal decompression) vs. misalignments and joint dysfunction (chiropractic adjustments).

2. Spinal Decompression vs. Physical Therapy

• Spinal Decompression: Passively stretches the spine to relieve nerve compression and improve disc health.
• Physical Therapy: Focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the spine through targeted exercises.
• Best For: Severe disc-related pain (spinal decompression) vs. rehabilitation after an injury (physical therapy).

3. Spinal Decompression vs. Surgery

• Spinal Decompression: Non-invasive, uses traction forces to reduce disc pressure.
• Surgery (e.g., discectomy, spinal fusion): Involves removing or fusing parts of the spine, often with risks of complications and long recovery times.
• Best For: Mild to moderate spinal conditions (spinal decompression) vs. severe spinal injuries that do not respond to conservative care (surgery).

4. Spinal Decompression vs. Pain Medications

• Spinal Decompression: Treats the underlying cause of pain by restoring spinal disc function.
• Pain Medications: Mask symptoms temporarily but do not address the root cause.
• Best For: Long-term relief and healing (spinal decompression) vs. short-term symptom management (medications).

Benefits of Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal Decompression Therapy offers several benefits, particularly for individuals who want to avoid surgery or medication:

• Non-surgical treatment: Spinal decompression is a non-invasive treatment, meaning there is no need for incisions or anaesthesia. It also requires no recovery time, allowing patients to return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
• Effective pain relief: Many patients experience relief from back and neck pain after just a few sessions, with improvements continuing over time.
• Long-term results: Unlike medications, which may only mask symptoms, spinal decompression addresses the root cause of the pain, promoting long-term healing and relief.
• Minimal risk: Spinal decompression is a gentle therapy that is well-tolerated by most patients. There are few side effects, making it an ideal option for people who want to avoid the risks of surgery.
• Restores spinal health: In addition to relieving pain, spinal decompression helps improve spinal alignment, which can enhance posture, mobility, and overall health.

What to Expect During a Spinal Decompression Therapy Session

At Complete Chiropractic Sports and Wellness, we tailor each Spinal Decompression Therapy session to your specific needs. Before beginning treatment, our chiropractic team will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if decompression therapy is the right option for you.

During your session, you will lie comfortably on a specialized decompression table. The table will gently stretch your spine in a controlled manner, according to a program designed specifically for your condition. The procedure is painless, and most patients report feeling a sense of relief during the treatment.

A typical session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, and most patients require a series of 24 treatments for the best results, depending on the severity of their condition. After treatment, you can return to your normal activities immediately—there’s no downtime required.

What to Expect After a Spinal Decompression Therapy Treatment

After treatment, it is not uncommon to have some stiffness or soreness. This is normal and often is an indicator that you are responding to the treatment. We recommend staying mobile and hydrating after treatment. Usually these symptoms start to reside shortly after completing the session.