Spinal Decompression and Chiropractic

Spinal decompression is used to relieve pressure on pinched nerves of the spinal column (also referred to as neural impingement). This form of decompression can be achieved both through a surgical and non-surgical procedure, and is used to treat various conditions such as:

• Chronic back pain
• Sciatica
• Disc bulges
• Dics herniation
• Spinal stenosis
• Isthmic and degenerative spondylolisthesis

Let’s look at a brief overview of both surgical and non-surgical spinal decompression!

Surgical spinal decompression

There are two common procedures associated with surgical spinal decompression, microdecompression (microdisectomy) and laminectomy (open decompression). Microdisectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure whereby a portion of a herniated nucleus pulpolsus is removed. The removal is performed by way of a surgical instrument while using a microscope or loupe for magnification. A laminectomy is a more invasive surgical procedure whereby a small portion of the arch of the vertebrae is removed from the spine to alleviate pressure on the pinched nerve. Usually people will elect to undergo this procedure when they have not been able to relieve their back pain through more conservative options.

Non-surgical spinal decompression

This form of spinal decompression is usually achieved by using a mechanical traction device applied through an on-board computer. The computer will control the force and angle of the disc distraction, which in turn reduces the body’s natural propensity to resist external force or generate muscle spasms. This method provides enhanced control and allows non-surgical spinal decompression tables to apply a traction force that reduces intradiscal pressure to the discs of the spinal column.

The fact is, most neck and back pain is caused by degenerative discs, bulging discs and herniated discs. These issues cam translate to leg cramps, back pain, sciatica, arm pain, and many other symptoms. The issue has always been to find a way of treating the discs without a major, invasive surgery. Before the introduction of spinal decompression therapy, there wasn’t a step between treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, surgery and other non invasive options.

Discs don’t have an efficient blood supply, unlike other parts of your body, so when damage occurs, the healing process is difficult. These discs get their nutrition from bones nearby, through a pumping motion that increases when you move. However, once a disc is torn or damaged, it loses the ability to maintain hydration, and can become brittle and dry. This of course leads to more damage, inflammation, and ultimately pain.

If you think that you have damaged a disc, or are experiencing one of the symptoms mentioned above, consult with a chiropractor to see if spinal decompression can help.

Dr. David Tuchinsky practices in Weston, Florida – His address is 17160 Royal Palm Boulevard – Suite 1 – Weston, Florida – His telephone number is 954-895-7896. Feel free to call to schedule a free consultation with the Doctor.