What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy and How Does it Help?

The spine is a column that contains more than 25 bones, masses of nervous tissue, and layers of membranes. This part of the body is vital to human survival and is required for nearly every movement—from thought-out actions like playing a violin to reflex movements like pulling away from a hot pan. Because the spinal cord is such an important part of every day life, problems in this area can be extremely painful and debilitating. The American Chiropractic Association reports that about 31 million Americans suffer from lower back pain. In addition, back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide

Spinal Manipulation

Chiropractors, doctors who specialize in the nervous and musculoskeletal systems, utilize several therapies to help with back pain. The most common is spinal manipulation, an adjustment of the spinal column using pushing, pulling, and twisting movements. Other popular therapies include hot and cold therapy and physical therapy. One method that is gaining popularity is a unique and technologically advanced method of treating back pain known as Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal Decompression Therapy is nonsurgical therapy method that uses motorized traction to stretch the spine and decompress the spinal disks. In order to perform this therapy, a chiropractor will fit the patient with pelvic and trunk harnesses. Once the patient has been fitted with the harnesses, they will lie on a table that is controlled by a computer. After the chiropractor customizes the therapy on a computer program, the computer will cause the harnesses and table to move, thus stretching and changing the position of the spine. The average therapy lasts around 30-45 minutes and may be combined with other chiropractic techniques like electric stimulation and ultrasound.