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Traction/Spinal Decompression Therapy
Traction/Spinal Decompression is an effective form of therapy for neck and low back pain related to bulging discs, degenerative discs, and in some cases herniated discs. It may also benefit compressed nerves associated with spinal stenosis and herniated discs in the neck and lower back.
If you are suffering from the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for traction/spinal decompression therapy:
These symptoms are often related to disc injury or spinal stenosis, which are amenable to traction therapy. In many cases, traction can provide a much lower risk and safer form of therapy in place of surgery and should be attempted prior to surgical consideration for these conditions.
1) Restoration of disc height with associated reduction of pain
Research has indicated that non-surgical spinal decompression has the potential ability to restore disc height following loss related to a herniated disc. This has shown strong correlation to a reduction of low back pain with traction/spinal decompression and is believed to be one of the primary therapeutic benefits associated with this treatment.
Research Links:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20615252
2) Reduction of pressure on a pinched nerve (herniated discs, spinal stenosis)
Research has shown the ability of traction to help decrease pressure off of pinched nerves associated with condition such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis. As a result, we have noted decreased pain (and other possible nerve symptoms including tingling and numbness) and improved function (improved muscle strength) to the affected areas.
Research Links:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19846359
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15609843
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11324874
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10903582
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16385939
3) Reducing size of disc herniations
Research has shown that continuous lumbar traction has the ability to reduce the size of a herniated disc in the lumbar spine, thereby helping to decrease the symptoms associated with these injuries.4) Maintenance of proper hydration of the intervertebral disc through proper fluid exchange
The intervertebral disc is a fluid tissue and as such requires proper hydration to maintain its function as a “shock” absorber to help aid as a cushion between the bones, vertebrae, in our spine. Research has lead to support the ability of traction to assist in the maintenance of this hydration, which is extremely important to the overall health of the disc.5) Possibly helps to aid in improved blood flow to pinched nerves
Traction may improve nerve health through improving blood flow to pinched nerves.
Contact Spring Road Wellness & Chiropractic Center today at 717-241-WELL (9355) for more about Traction/Spinal Decompression Therapy.
