Understanding Disc Herniations and Radiculopathy
If you have ever experienced sharp, shooting pain in your neck, lower back, or down your arms and legs, you might be suffering from a disc herniation with radiculopathy. These conditions can cause serious discomfort and affect your daily life, making simple activities like walking, sitting, or even sleeping painful. At Procare Oviedo Chiropractors, we offer spinal decompression therapy to help relieve pain and promote healing without surgery or medications.
What is a Disc Herniation?
Your spine is made up of bones called vertebrae, and between each bone is a soft, cushion-like structure known as an intervertebral disc. These discs act as shock absorbers, helping your spine move freely while protecting it from impact.
A disc herniation occurs when the soft inner material of the disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer. This can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back), causing symptoms that can radiate down the arms or legs, a condition known as radiculopathy.
Symptoms of Cervical and Lumbar Radiculopathy
When a herniated disc presses on a spinal nerve, it can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the location of the injury:
Cervical Radiculopathy (Neck-Related Nerve Pain)
- Pain in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or hands
- Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks
- Headaches or discomfort that radiates from the neck
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Lower Back-Related Nerve Pain)
- Lower back pain that may extend into the buttocks or legs
- Sciatica—sharp, burning pain down one or both legs
- Muscle weakness or difficulty walking
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
If left untreated, radiculopathy can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. This is why seeking early treatment is essential.
How Spinal Decompression Therapy Works
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pressure on spinal discs and nerves. Using a specialized traction table, this therapy gently stretches the spine in a controlled manner. This stretching creates negative pressure within the discs, helping to:
- Reduce pressure on spinal nerves by pulling herniated disc material away from the nerve roots.
- Improve circulation to the injured area, bringing oxygen and nutrients to help with healing.
- Rehydrate and restore disc function, allowing damaged discs to regain some of their cushioning ability.
What to Expect During Spinal Decompression Therapy
At Procare Oviedo Chiropractors, we customize spinal decompression treatments to each patient’s specific condition. Here’s what you can expect during a session:
- Patient Positioning: You will be comfortably secured onto the decompression table. Depending on whether your pain is in the neck or lower back, the table will be adjusted accordingly.
- Gentle Stretching: The machine applies a gentle, precise stretch to your spine, creating space between the vertebrae.
- Cycle of Relaxation and Traction: The session alternates between stretching and relaxation to allow the spine to adjust gradually.
- Painless and Comfortable: Most patients find the treatment relaxing, with many experiencing immediate relief during the session.
- Duration: Each session lasts around 15–30 minutes, and a typical treatment plan consists of multiple sessions over several weeks, depending on the severity of the condition.
The Benefits of Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression offers numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for individuals suffering from disc-related pain. Some of the main advantages include:
- Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, spinal decompression does not require incisions or anesthesia.
- Drug-free pain relief: Reduces reliance on pain medications that only mask symptoms.
- Improved mobility: Helps restore proper spinal alignment and function.
- Long-term healing: Promotes natural healing and disc regeneration.
Who is a Good Candidate for Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression therapy is ideal for patients with:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sciatica or nerve pain
- Chronic lower back or neck pain
- Spinal stenosis
However, it may not be suitable for individuals with severe osteoporosis, spinal fractures, or recent spinal surgeries. A consultation with our chiropractors will determine if this therapy is right for you.
Additional Therapies to Enhance Recovery
While spinal decompression is highly effective on its own, it works even better when combined with other treatments. At Procare Oviedo Chiropractors, we often integrate:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To restore spinal alignment and improve nerve function.
- Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility.
- Massage Therapy: To relieve muscle tension and enhance circulation.
- Postural Training: To prevent future injuries by improving spinal posture.
Why Choose Procare Oviedo Chiropractors?
At Procare Oviedo Chiropractors, we take a patient-centered approach to care. Our team is dedicated to finding the root cause of your pain and providing treatments that support long-term healing. When you choose us for spinal decompression therapy, you can expect:
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition
- State-of-the-art decompression technology
- A caring and experienced team of chiropractic professionals
- A holistic approach that promotes overall spine health
Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief Today!
If you’re struggling with disc herniations or radiculopathy, don’t wait for the pain to take over your life. Spinal decompression therapy at Procare Oviedo Chiropractors can help you find relief and restore your mobility—without the need for invasive procedures. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how we can help you get back to living pain-free!