Spinal Decompression Basics

Most of the patients we meet in Brookings don’t understand the basics of spinal decompression. With back pain tormenting humans for thousands of years, health care providers have searched high and low for a solution.  The one place they hadn’t looked until recently is outer space.  In a report, it was found that researchers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration may have found a non-invasive way to treat back pain caused by intervertebral disc problems.  Our doctors at Murray Chiropractic Clinic will use this short article to describe this new treatment method and how it could lead to faster healing and pain relief for you.

Understanding Spinal Decompression

To understand how spinal decompression therapy can provide relief for back pain, it is important to understand the basic function of intervertebral discs.  Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers throughout the spine, keeping separation between the neighboring vertebrae or back bones as we walk and move.  As we age and with certain activities, these discs began to lose fluid, resulting in less space between the surrounding vertebrae.  This loss in space often allows the vertebrae above and below to put increased pressure on local nerves, resulting in pain.

Spinal decompression tables are designed in a way that allows discs to return to their normal form.  Typically, a person suffering from a disc pathology will lie on a specially designed decompression table that focuses on their area of pain.  After a harness is applied carefully, a computer controlled program will determine the amount of traction or pull necessary to provide the intervertebral discs with the relief they need.  As the unit tractions the spine to the appropriate level, fluids which supply nutrients to the discs are allowed to return.  With increased fluid in the discs throughout the damaged area of the spine, the discs are allowed to return to their normal shape and form, providing relief to compressed nerves and other surrounding structures.  This process is similar to what astronauts experience in space as gravity is reduced. While it has usually taken a significant amount of time to cause damage to the discs, the time required to return them to their normal form and function varies.

Spinal decompression provides a valuable adjunct to your routine chiropractic care.  While other treatment avenues exist, spinal decompression therapy provides a cost effective and proven approach to treating your back pain.  In addition, the side effects and risks of spinal decompression therapy pales in comparison to more invasive treatments such as surgery and medication.  If you are interested in learning more about spinal decompression therapy or are seeking a consultation concerning your back pain, contact our Murray Chiropractic Clinic in Brookings today.