What is Spinal Decompression?
The Spinal Decompression Device is a treatment tool used in spinal problems such as lumbar and cervical herniated discs, aiming to relieve and heal the spine without surgery. By opening the compressed discs in the spine and creating negative pressure (vacuum effect), this device helps to pull the herniated discs back into place. Simply by reducing the pressure between the vertebrae, it relieves pain and aids healing.
This treatment method was inspired by space programs. In NASA space research, it was observed that in a zero-gravity environment, the pressure in the spine of astronauts decreased and the disc spaces widened, which resulted in relief of low back pain. Inspired by this experience, the Spinal Decompression Therapy device is effectively used in the treatment of hernia. Today, this treatment method is safely applied in many countries, especially in the USA.
How Does Spinal Decompression Therapy Work?
The Spinal Decompression device works by widening the narrowed disc spaces in the lumbar and cervical region. When the distance between the vertebrae is widened, negative pressure (vacuum effect) is created, which allows the protruding disc to retract. In addition, the negative pressure accelerates the nourishment of the disc and the healing begins. Oxygen and nutrients heal damaged tissues. The reduced pressure between the vertebrae helps to pull the herniated disc backwards and relieves pressure on the nerves, providing relief.
What are the Advantages of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
The Spinal Decompression device reduces the intra-disc pressure to negative values with individually adjustable shooting angles and logarithmic shooting technology. In this way, it provides an effective treatment. While conventional traction devices apply the same load to every part of the spine, the Spinal Decompression device applies a controlled pull only between the problematic vertebrae. In this way, the body's protective mechanisms are not activated and the treatment becomes much more effective. In addition, overloading with conventional devices forces the spinal muscles to contract and can reduce the treatment effect.
Who Can Receive Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal Decompression Therapy is an effective treatment method for the following diseases and disorders, especially lumbar and cervical herniated discs:
- Lumbar and Neck Hernias
- Chronic Back and Neck Pain
- Sciatica Pain
- Spinal Canal Stenosis
- Facet (Spine Joint) Pain
- Spinal Calcification (Degeneration)
- Disk Hernias
- Neuropathic Pain (Pain caused by pressure on the nerve roots)
- Lumbar and Cervical Radiculopathy (Nerve root compression in the lumbar and cervical region)
- Chronic Muscle and Joint Related Pain
- Overweight Patients (Conditions where pressure on the spine is increased due to weight)
- Spinal Hump (Kyphosis) (Pain and discomfort caused by curvature of the spine)
Who is not eligible for Spinal Decompression Therapy?
- Spine Fractures
- Severe Bone Resorption
- Sequestrated herniated discs (with fragments falling into the spinal canal)
- Spine Tumors
- Inflammatory diseases of the spine
- Pregnant women
How is Spinal Decompression Therapy Performed?
The treatment is applied according to the program drawn by the examining physician. Special corsets and appropriate belts are attached to the patient according to the problematic area. The patient is placed on the platform at the base of the device, his/her weight is measured and included in the treatment program. The duration of treatment and the required angle are determined according to the affected disc area, and then the computer-controlled gravity force is applied. The treatment time usually lasts 30 minutes and cold packs and, if necessary, current therapy are applied after the session.
Physical therapy applications and supportive methods such as manual therapy, ultrasound, medical massage and exercise can be added to the treatment determined by the physician.
What is the Success Rate of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal Decompression Therapy has a significant success rate in patients with lumbar and cervical herniated discs who have reached the stage of surgery.