Ongoing back pain can disrupt your life, keeping you out of work or from enjoying your favorite hobbies. One method your doctor may recommend for reducing pain is spinal decompression therapy, which can reduce pressure on your discs (the gel-like cushions between your spinal bones). If you’re not sure whether this method is for you, below is a guide that details how it works and how it can benefit you.  

Understanding Spinal Decompression Therapy

How Does Spinal Decompression Therapy Work?

Spinal Decompression Therapy is designed to provide pain relief for compressive and degenerative injuries of the spine. It involves a non-invasive and non-surgical way to provide relief of pain associated with herniated disks. The theory behind it is a process whereby forces are applied to the spine to maximize spinal elongation, spreading apart the bony vertebra and relieving pressure on the nerves. Doing so can improve the flow of oxygen and nutrients into the spine and disks, helping to draw in herniated disc material.

What Should You Expect During the Therapy?

Spinal Decompression therapy, using The DRX9000 True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System, takes place typically over the course of six weeks. Your doctor or therapist will have you relax comfortably on a heavily-padded bed. You will be positioned with a harness around your upper and lower body, and then the DRX9000 technology uses a computer to gently stretch and guide your spine into place. Sessions last about 30 to 45 minutes, and may be combined with other therapies, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or heat and cold therapy.

Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Right For You?

Although many people have found relief from back pain using spinal decompression therapy, it isn’t right for everyone. Patients that benefit the most from Spinal Decompression therapy may be those with bulging discs, herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease or facet syndrome. Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history to determine whether you’re a good candidate. Pregnant women should not receive this type of treatment, and it’s not for people who have metal spinal implants or who have had an abdominal aortic aneurysm. It’s also not recommended for anyone with advanced osteoporosis, spinal fractures, or tumors on or near the spine.

If you have back pain, the experienced professionals at Montvale Health Sport + Spine will help. Serving Northern Bergen County, NJ, this compassionate team will take the time to understand your pain and develop a personalized, tailored treatment plan to help you find relief. They offer spinal decompression therapy, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and other treatments to help alleviate the pain associated with conditions like sciatica, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and osteoarthritis. Visit their website to learn more about their pain solutions and call (201) 391-8282 to schedule an appointment.