No matter your age, back pain can be a nuisance. Short-term aches and pains can typically be alleviated with rest, massage, medication, heat, or ice. However, more intensive treatments like spinal decompression may be necessary for more meaningful, longer-lasting relief if you're suffering from chronic back pain.
Spinal decompression could be the answer if you're suffering from chronic and severe back pain. This tried and tested treatment is a great way to combat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica by reducing the tension and stress on your spine. Whether you go down the non-surgical or surgical route, the goal of spinal decompression remains the same: to alleviate your pain.
From a herniated disc that pinches a nerve to sciatica that affects the sciatic nerve, from bulging disks that pressurize vertebrae to degenerating discs that deteriorate with age, and from spinal stenosis caused by bone spurs narrowing the spine, these conditions can be the result of an injury, a birth defect, or simply a consequence of the aging process.
Check out some of the highest-rated spinal decompression treatments! These treatments can help you find relief and start your journey to recovery from exercise, physiotherapy, and massage.
Non-Surgical: Motorized Spinal Traction
When it comes to back pain, doctors typically begin with the most straightforward, non-invasive treatments that can get you back on your feet quicker. Rather than jumping straight to surgery, these treatments are often preferred to help you avoid the long-term healing process.
Spinal traction has been proven to be one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available. With the help of pulleys, weights, and a traction table, your healthcare provider can gently manipulate and stretch your spine, changing the force and position of your spine. This relieves the pressure on the spinal disks - the gel-like cushions between the bones of your spine - by creating negative pressure in the disk.
This treatment can guide your bulging or herniated disks back into their proper place, taking pressure off of your spine's nerves and other structures. In addition, it helps to improve the flow of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks, aiding in their natural healing.
Discover revolutionary non-surgical relief with your healthcare provider! Step into a harness around your pelvis and trunk, and lay down on a computer-controlled table - face up or face down. Your doctor will customize your treatment based on your needs and might even use an inversion table to utilize the power of gravity. Completely clothed and comfortable, the procedure only takes about 30-45 minutes. Depending on your pain, you may need to return for 20-28 treatments over five to seven weeks.
Non- Surgical: Electrical Nerve Stimulation
TENS therapy is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after non-invasive spinal decompression treatments thanks to its moderate success rate. A pocket-sized TENS unit, similar to a smartphone, is applied directly to your skin to deliver low-voltage electrical impulses to the affected nerves and trigger points, helping reduce tension and block nerve pain.
By stimulating nerve cells, it interrupts the transmission of pain signals, providing instant and long-lasting relief. Plus, this nerve stimulation stimulates the release of endorphins- your body's natural painkillers- for an extra boost of pain-reducing goodness.
Surgical: Diskectomy
If non-invasive treatments have not been successful in providing the relief you need, your doctor may suggest exploring surgical treatments as an option.
Your surgeon will expertly remove the small portion of the disk causing the pressure on your nerve, helping to alleviate your pain. You may need to remain in the hospital for up to five days after your surgery, though full recovery can take several months. Physical therapy is an excellent way to help you speed up the recovery process and regain strength, movement, and sensation.
Surgical: Osteophyte Removal
As we age, it's not uncommon to see the development of bone spurs or osteophytes. While they can form in people of all ages, those with osteoarthritis are especially susceptible. If your spine is affected, don't worry; surgery can remove these bony protrusions. The spurs will naturally wear away as time passes, often located around joints where two bones meet.
Final Thoughts
Despite the generally safe and successful nature of spinal decompression treatments, it's important to be aware that, as with any treatment, certain risks are associated. Ensure you discuss these with your doctor or surgeon and ask any questions about these risks before beginning your treatment.
You may be tempted to try a certain treatment, but it's important to remember that what works for someone else may not be the best choice for you. Your doctor will help you find a safe and effective treatment that meets your needs.
Why not take your treatment to the next level by exploring some at-home therapies? Watch YouTube for exercise and lifestyle changes that can enhance your treatment plan.