Spinal Decompression is a non-invasive, non-surgical therapy where clinical results have been effective in over 86% of patients treated.  The common problems of many back conditions are damaged discs and poor spinal muscle control.  Spinal decompression treatment addresses both of these core problems.  The Spinal decompression system creates a controlled unloading of the vertebra to decrease disc pressure thus increasing blood and nutrient exchange.  This exchange of fluids is something the damaged disc needs to help it heal from the inside out.

Which conditions respond well to Spinal Decompression?

The conditions that respond well to spinal decompression include disc herniations (both single and multilevel), disc bulging, degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome, sciatica neuritis, lumbar and cervical radiculopathy, leg pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis.

How long is the treatment program?

It depends on the complexity and extent of the rehabilitation needed, however we typically treat 3 times per week for 1 month, transitioning from passive to active treatments as the patient responds.  The treatment is administered over a reasonable time frame and the patient’s response is continually evaluated.  Further treatment may be necessary or a reduced frequency may be recommended at that time.  The rehabilitative phase may include additional spinal decompression treatments, with spinal adjustments to enhance the results.  Most patients are released from treatment after 8 weeks.

How does it work?

The gentle stretching and relaxing of the spine fosters a phenomenon called “imbibition.”  This is the way a normal disc gets nutrition.  This pumping action promotes nutrition intake into the discs, something often lost in damaged and degenerative disc conditions.  A disc with poor imbibition, fewer nutrients and hydration, is more likely to become injured and painful.  Tractioning the spine in a controlled, comfortable manner can help re-establish a more normal imbibition.  This can re-supply the disc with nutrients and blood contact that help the disc heal from the inside out.  The dramatic increase of pressure in the disc (decompression) can foster the drawing in of a bulge and help take pressure off a “pinched” spinal nerve.

Are spinal decompression treatments safe?

The spinal decompression treatments are one of the most gentle and comfortable therapies available.  The treatments utilize FDA cleared equipment with proven safety and efficacy and have never been reported to cause injury.  Most patients report a mild sense of stretch on their backs or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions.

How do I see if I am a candidate for spinal decompression therapy?

You can visit USSpinecare.com our website on non-surgical spinal decompression

This article was contributed by Dr. Sabrina Moren of Physicians Wellness Care, Inc. To learn more about her Lake Worth Chiropractic center you can visit www.DrMorgen.com or visit her Lake Worth Chiropractor profile on USSpinecare.com

Causes

• Most whiplash injuries are caused by a car accident, often by being struck from behind.
• Shaken Baby Syndrome
• Falls from a horse or a bicycle
• Headbanging
• Trauma from being hit, kicked or shaken
• Accidents, such as from riding a snowboard or a skiing accident
• Injury from riding a roller coaster or an amusement park ride that hyper-extends the neck or causes it to be snapped suddenly
• Extreme, sudden straining to lift or pull a very heavy object

Muscle and Ligament Symptoms

• Tightness or spasms of the muscles of the neck or upper back
• Pain with movement of neck
• Decreased mobility and stiffness
• Burning and tingling in neck and shoulders, upper back
• Pain in shoulder
• Pain in upper back or between shoulder blades
• Pain in one arm
• Low back pain
• Pain in jaw or face
• Pain in the face, the entire head, or behind the eyes
• Difficulty swallowing and chewing plus hoarseness, which can be symptoms of injury to the esophagus or larynx

Neurological Symptoms
These symptoms may be the result of injury to the soft tissue in the neck or a mild brain injury or concussion.

• Vision problems, blurred vision
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Poor concentration, forgetfulness
• Feeling of disorientation
• Sensitivity to sound and light
• Irritability
• Depression
• Sleeplessness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness (vertigo)
• Feeling of pins and needles in arms, possibly legs

Diagnosing A Whiplash Injury

• History and Physical must be done
• X-rays to rule out fracture or dislocation
• CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) shows detailed images of neck
• MRI ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging) produces detailed images

Treatment
Treatment depends upon the severity of symptoms.

• Ice may be applied to neck for 24 hours after injury.NSAID Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) may reduce pain and muscle inflammation.
• Muscle Relaxants may be prescribed.
• Physical therapy may be recommended.
• Mild range of motion exercises may be prescribed with proper posture methods to relieve excessive strain on neck.
• Cold and heat treatments may bring some relief.
• Massage therapy promotes healing and relieves pain.
• Chiropractic therapy may be recommended. Spinal manipulation appears to be the most effective within the first 6 weeks following the injury.
• Soft collars are advised only for the first 2 or 3 days when pain and inflammation re the worst.
• Prolonged use has been shown to delay recovery from whiplash. In some cases, intermittent use is helpful.
• A fracture or dislocation requires the wearing of a collar.

Prognosis

• Mild whip lash injuries may heal within 2 to 3 weeks.
• Moderate injuries require 2 to 3 months.
• Severe whiplash may take months to heal and symptoms, such as headache and neck pain, may linger for 6 months or longer.
• Chronic symptoms may last for years and degenerative changes in the disc and vertebrae may develop.

A whiplash injury truly can become a ‘pain in the neck’ for sufferers of its long term effects.