Understanding Spinal Decompression

Spinal Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical treatment to relieve neck or back pain and other problems associated with spinal disc injuries. Poor posture, improper ergonomics, repetitive stress injuries, and acute injury can cause your vertebrae to compress your discs. Bulging discs, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, sciatica, and arm pain or leg pain can often be attributed to your spine asserting pressure on your discs, which in turn pinches the spinal cord or spinal nerves. The problem is often perpetuated because the compressed disc restricts the flow of nutrients to itself which is needed to heal.

Our Oviedo spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive treatment that provides gentle decompression of the disc using a special table. You are strapped to the table so that as it moves it applies a distraction force to the targeted area of the spine (the compressed disc). A computer controls the distraction force which is applied in between periods of relaxation. This gently pulls the spine apart which creates a ‘vacuum effect’ within the disc allowing the disc to heal. Decompression therapy works in very minute increments which over time allows the disc to retract back to its normal position.

At ProCare Oviedo, our chiropractic team specializes in spinal decompression, offering both non-surgical and surgical options depending on your specific needs.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a gentle, yet effective, method for treating back pain and leg pain. This therapy involves using a specialized table that gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the spinal discs. This negative pressure can help retract herniated discs, reduce pressure on the spinal nerves, and promote the flow of healing nutrients to the affected area.

This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: The gentle stretching of the spine helps to reposition the discs, relieving pressure on the nerve roots.
• Spinal Stenosis: By increasing the space within the spinal canal, non-surgical decompression can alleviate the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
• Sciatica: Pain that radiates down the leg is often caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. Spinal decompression helps relieve this pressure, reducing leg pain.

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a safe and effective option for those seeking relief from back pain without undergoing surgery. The treatment is painless, and most patients find the process to be relaxing.

Surgical Spinal Decompression

In some cases, non-surgical treatments may not be sufficient to alleviate severe back pain or spinal issues. For patients with advanced spinal conditions, such as severe spinal stenosis or herniated discs that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical spinal decompression may be necessary.

At ProCare Oviedo, we offer a range of surgical spinal decompression options, including:

• Lumbar Decompression Surgery: This procedure is used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in the lower back (lumbar spine). It involves removing a portion of the vertebra or disc that is compressing the spinal nerves, thereby alleviating pain and improving mobility.
• Spinal Fusion: In cases where instability of the spine is a concern, spinal fusion may be performed in conjunction with lumbar decompression surgery. This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to provide stability to the spinal column.
• Surgical Spinal Decompression for Spinal Stenosis: For patients with severe spinal stenosis, surgery may be required to enlarge the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This procedure can significantly reduce pain and improve function.

Spinal decompression surgeries are often recommended for patients who have not experienced relief from other treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or pain medications. Conditions that may warrant spinal decompression surgery include:

The Recovery Process

Recovery from spinal decompression surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s overall health. At ProCare Oviedo, our team provides comprehensive post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery process.

• Post-Surgery Care: Following surgery, patients will be monitored closely to ensure proper healing. Pain management, physical therapy, and regular follow-up appointments are essential components of the recovery process.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is crucial in regaining strength and mobility after spinal surgery. Our experienced therapists will design a personalized rehabilitation program to help you recover quickly and safely.
• Long-Term Outcomes: With proper care and rehabilitation, most patients experience long-term relief from pain and improved spinal function after spinal decompression surgery.

At ProCare Oviedo, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from spinal conditions. Our team of experienced chiropractors and spine specialists uses the latest techniques and technologies to deliver effective treatments tailored to your specific needs.

We understand that every patient is unique, and we take the time to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your individual condition and goals. Whether you are seeking non-surgical spinal decompression or require surgical intervention, we are here to help you find relief from back pain and improve your quality of life.