By Clyde Banosia
Spinal decompression therapy is an effective approach to relieving back pain in patients. It has been shown to reduce the discomfort of conditions such as sciatica, herniated or degenerative discs, or strains. Patients with these issues can consult a Chalfont chiropractor who will examine them and determine if this approach is suitable.
The process of spinal decompression occurs when the vertebrae are gently forced apart and a vacuum forms in between them. As this happens, bulging discs are forced back into place in a way that they no longer compress nerves in the area and the flow of blood and oxygen into these tissues is also increased. After the procedure, most patients will already feel an improvement.
There are different ways to achieve decompression; one of these is called inversion therapy. A traction table is used through which the practitioner can control the angle and force of decompression. The patient lies on the table on either his or her back or stomach, depending on which part of the back is affected. The decompression force is delivered alternately with periods of relaxation for about a half hour.
Another technique used is mechanical pelvic traction. The patient is positioned on the table so the legs are at a 90 degree angle to the body and they are strapped in at the hips and chest. The practitioner will adjust the pull of the device based on the patient's body weight, most start out at a force of 50% of their mass and it may be intermittent or continuous. A session is usually 10 to 20 minutes long.
Some practitioners prefer to apply manual distraction rather than use the tables. It employs human strength alone to exert the force necessary for decompression to occur. A precise technique must be used to safely perform this procedure; when done correctly it can produce results which are just as effective as those obtained mechanically.
Studies of patients who have undergone decompression therapy to ease back pain indicate the efficacy of this approach. Like other chiropractic modalities, it does not have side effects and is safe. A Chalfont chiropractor will be able to provide this type of therapy to back pain sufferers, and once they have attended a few sessions they should experience a notable improvement.
