Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical procedure that is used at Dynamic Wellness & Chiropractic to alleviate back pain, neck pain, and other symptoms associated with spinal disc problems. It is a safe and effective method that involves stretching the spine to reduce pressure on the spinal discs, which are the soft cushions that separate the vertebrae in the spine.

What is Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is a procedure that uses mechanical traction to stretch the spine gently. The aim is to create negative pressure within the disc, which helps to relieve pressure and pain caused by disc herniation, bulging, or degeneration. The negative pressure also promotes the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrients into the disc, which can help to improve its health and function.

There are two types of spinal decompression: surgical and non-surgical. Surgical decompression involves the removal of a portion of the damaged disc, while non-surgical decompression uses traction to stretch the spine.

How Does Spinal Decompression Work?

Spinal decompression works by creating negative pressure within the spinal disc. During the procedure, the patient lies on a table while a machine applies gentle traction to the spine. The traction stretches the spine, creating a vacuum-like effect within the disc, which helps to draw bulging or herniated disc material back into the disc. This reduces pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord, which can alleviate pain, numbness, and tingling in the back, neck, arms, and legs.

Spinal decompression also helps to promote the flow of oxygen and nutrients into the disc, which can help to improve its health and function. This can help to prevent further degeneration and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Who Can Benefit from Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression can be an effective treatment option for a variety of spinal conditions, including:

1. Disc herniation: A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of the disc bulges out and presses on a nerve root or the spinal cord.

2. Disc bulge: A bulging disc occurs when the outer layer of the disc bulges out but does not rupture.

3. Degenerative disc disease: This occurs when the discs in the spine begin to wear down and lose their cushioning ability.

4. Sciatica: This is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs, is compressed or irritated.

5. Spinal stenosis: This is a condition that occurs when the space around the spinal cord narrows and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

Spinal decompression is a safe and effective treatment option for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as pregnancy, severe osteoporosis, or spinal instability.

If you are experiencing back or neck pain and nerve pain in either the arms or legs, contact us at our Tampa office to see if spinal decompression is an appropriate treatment option for you.