Questions
WHAT IS SPINAL DECOMPRESSION OR TRACTION THERAPY?
Spinal Decompression Therapy is the process of Stretching the Spine by the use of a Traction table or some similar motorized device. Basically Traction is the force applied and Spinal Decompression is the result of that force. Traction is basically a gentle or moderate force that is applied to the spine in order to slightly separate the bones or vertebrae of the spine. The basic aim being the relief from Back pain, and promoting an optimal healing environment for Bulging, Degenerating or herniated discs.
A Traction is usually used for Neck, Upper Back, Lower Back(Lumbar Spine) etc.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS SPINAL DECOMPRESSION OR TRACTION THERAPY?
Spinal decompression is a type of therapy applied to the spine in a attempt to bring about several benefits including:
- Creation of less pressure within the spinal discs thus relieving pain and promoting nutrition to the discs.
- Reduction of Protrusion or bulge in the disc by drawing out the gel nucleus towards the centre of the disc.
- Enlargement of the Tunnels where the nerves exit the spine thus allowing the nerves to breathe and regain proper circulation and become un-pinched.
- Stretching or Decompressing of Painful or Arthritic spinal Joints from the effects of constant gravity and poor posture acting on the body.
- Lengthening or Stretching of the Muscles, Tendons and Ligaments.
- Creation of a negative intradiscal pressure to promote repositioning of the herniated or bulging disc.
WHAT CONDITIONS ARE TREATED BY SPINAL DECOMPRESSION OR TRACTION THERAPY?
Traction or Spinal Decompression helps a large percentage of people with spinal conditions but generally the following conditions are potentially improved:
- Neck and Lower back Pain, either recent or long lasting that is of a mechanical cause.
- Sciatica (Thigh and Leg pain)
- Disc Bulging or Protrusion
- Nerve Compression (Pinched Nerve)
- Arthritis of the spine
- Degenerative disc disease
- Stenosis of the Spine (narrowed nerve tunnels)
WHAT ARE THE CONTRAINDICATIONS OF SPINAL DECOMPRESSION OR TRACTION THERAPY?
Stretching the spine to relieve back pain is not appropriate for some patients which involves the following patients:
- Pregnant women
- Patients with broken Vertebrae
- Patients who have had spinal fusion
- Patients with artificial disc or other implants
- Patients with failed back surgery