Spinal Decompression Shown as Viable Treatment for Sciatica
Sciatica, or pain that radiates from the lower back down through the hips and legs, affects millions of Americans. Generally caused by some sort of herniated disk in the spine, the pain occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs along this path is in distress. Sciatica is one of the most common causes of back pain and medical professionals have been searching for effective treatments for decades. While many suffers use prescription pain medicine and physical therapy to treat their injury, chiropractic has been shown to be a great treatment.
Most recently, studies have shown that non-surgical spinal decompression therapy is a promising treatment of sciatica. In this process, the affected spinal disc is manipulated carefully along with the corresponding sciatic nerve. It allows both the disc to be gently moved back into its proper spot, but also allows the compressed sciatic nerve to open and receive vital nutrients. When dealing with sciatic nerve pain, the inflammation is often caused by a lack of these nutrients flowing through the body.
The treatment is done on a decompression table with the patient lying face down. Many chiropractic patients are used to these tables already, as they as used for spinal manipulation both routine and advanced. Instead of the chiropractor applying the pressure, a special machine run by a computer gently stretches and elongates the patient’s spine. While it is a slower process, the minute increments open the space in the vertebrae near the damaged disc. This allows the disc to move back where it should be, allowing to heal by placement and because of the nutrients that will now return to the area via the nerve.
Experts state that this therapy is an excellent option for those who are suffering from chronic sciatic pain. It is a natural and non-invasive way to relieve a common back issue for so many people. Patients who have received non-surgical spinal decompression have reported lower pain levels and higher recovery rates from their original injuries. Some, who have suffered chronic sciatica for years, have finally found relief through this process. If you are one of the millions who have suffered a herniated or bulged disc, talk to your physician and chiropractor to see if spinal decompression is a viable option. You may be back to normal before you know it.