Risks of Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression is an Federal Drug Administration-approved therapy for pain caused by a bulging or herniated disc. Spinal decompression is used to relieve pain in the back, legs, neck and arm. This therapy method can also be used after a failed spine surgery, but does have associated risks. is considered less invasive than injections, spinal surgery and anesthesia.
Significance
Treatment options for spinal problems can be costly and are not always 100 percent effective in treating the pain or other symptoms. Even though it is a minimally invasive technique, there are still risks involved and it is important to undergo a physical exam, MRI and X-rays to determine if spinal decompression is the correct therapy option for you.
Function
Spinal decompression works by relaxing the spine through specific positions. The spinal disc is put under "negative pressure," and is meant to pull the herniated disc material back inside the disc through a vacuum effect. Because of the decrease in pressure in the discs, spinal decompression is meant to stimulate the blood supply and promote healing.
Contraindications
Spinal decompression should not be used for women who are pregnant because of pressure on the abdomen. Patients who have spinal instability, such as severe osteoporosis or degeneration of the spine, should not use spinal decompression. If a patient has spinal surgery with the implantation of screws, metal plates or similar hardware, spinal decompression is also not used, unless the bone is fused together. Spinal decompression may be used after surgery.
Research
According to a study published by Dr. Thomas Gionis in 2003, approximately 86 percent of the patients who completed spinal decompression therapy had resolved symptoms and 84 percent of patients remained pain free after 90 days of treatment.
Treatment
Spinal decompression therapy is often used for those who have back or neck pain because of damaged discs, including herniated disc, bulging discs, narrowing of the spinal column or stenosis of the spine, sciatica or radiculopathy. If there is severe nerve damage, spinal decompression therapy may not be a treatment option.
Alternatives
In addition to spinal decompression, it is important to know that there are other methods, such as chiropractic care, massage, acupuncture, physical therapy, medication and injections. These methods can provide results in addition to or as an alternative to surgical options.
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