Back pain is a prevalent issue affecting millions worldwide — in fact, around 80% of adults in the United States report having back pain at some point in their life. Often, back pain can hinder your ability to work, enjoy hobbies, and even just get around at home. This can lead to decreased physical activity, which can contribute to other health issues, such as weight gain and cardiovascular problems. Back pain can be particularly frustrating for those who enjoy active hobbies like sports, gardening, or dancing, often forcing them to give up or limit their participation in these activities.
Thankfully, there are now highly effective nonsurgical treatments available for back pain. Read on to learn more about spinal decompression in Hoover.
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pain and promote healing in the spine. It involves gently stretching the spinal column, using a traction table or similar device, to create negative pressure within the spinal disks. This negative pressure can help retract herniated or bulging disks, alleviate pressure on nerves, and enhance the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks, promoting an optimal healing environment.
The Benefits of Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression therapy offers numerous benefits for those struggling with chronic back pain and related conditions. This non-invasive treatment aims to significantly improve quality of life while addressing some common causes of spinal discomfort.
Key benefits of spinal decompression therapy include:
- Reduces pressure on spinal discs and nerves, alleviating pain
- Promotes the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrients to the spinal disks, aiding in their repair
- Provides an alternative to invasive surgical procedures, reducing recovery time and associated risks
- Helps restore movement and flexibility in the spine
- Specifically addressing issues like herniated disks, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica
Spinal decompression therapy can be a highly effective option for those seeking relief from persistent back pain and spinal issues.
How is Spinal Decompression Performed?
Spinal decompression therapy uses a specialized traction table or a similar motorized device specially designed to stretch the spine gently.
During a standard session, you can expect the following:
- An initial assessment, including a physical exam and medical history review, to determine if spinal decompression is appropriate
- Being comfortably positioned on the decompression table, lying face up or face down, depending on the specific condition being treated
- The use of harnesses to ensure stability and proper alignment during therapy
- Applying a gentle and controlled stretch to the spinal canal creates negative pressure within the spinal disks, reducing pressure on the spinal nerves
- Traction force that is intermittently applied and released in cycles for 15 to 30 minutes for a maximized therapeutic effect
After the session, you’ll be gradually brought back to a neutral position. Spinal decompression therapy is usually performed over a series of sessions. The number of sessions needed for a complete treatment cycle depends on the cause and severity of your back pain.
Is Spinal Decompression Safe?
Spinal decompression therapy, when performed by a trained and experienced professional, is considered safe for most individuals. This non-invasive procedure carries fewer risks compared to surgical alternatives. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. A thorough evaluation is essential to determine if spinal decompression is appropriate for a specific patient.
Who Should Avoid Spinal Decompression?
A common question we are asked is, “Is spinal decompression therapy right for me?” While spinal decompression therapy can be beneficial for most individuals suffering from back pain and related conditions, it is not suitable for everyone. Certain groups of people should avoid this treatment due to potential risks or contraindications. These include:
- Pregnant women, as spinal decompression puts pressure on the lungs during inversion
- People with advanced osteoporosis may have weak or brittle bones that may be further compromised by the stretching forces
- Patients with spinal fractures, spinal tumors, or spinal infections since this treatment could exacerbate spinal injury or delay healing
- People with a history of abdominal aortic aneurysms — as pressure changes during therapy could pose a risk
A thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare provider is crucial to determine if spinal decompression therapy is a safe and appropriate option for a given individual.
Where to Find the Best Spinal Decompression Doctor in Hoover
If you're dealing with chronic back pain, spinal decompression therapy may be a beneficial addition to your treatment plan — especially if you’re looking for back pain relief that avoids the use of muscle relaxants and surgery.
Dr. Edwards is an award-winning chiropractor and spine specialist committed to helping people find lasting relief from all types of back pain, including pain caused by degenerative conditions, pinched nerves, sciatic nerve pain, and disk issues.
At Hoover Health and Wellness Center, Inc., you can expect highly personalized chiropractic care using modern techniques. Dr. Edwards and his team are dedicated to ensuring each patient receives comprehensive treatment that focuses on healing the root cause of pain while alleviating symptoms as soon as possible.
Ready to get fast and long-lasting relief from back pain with spinal decompression therapy in Hoover?
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