Back Pain - True Non Surgical Spinal Decompression

HERNIATED DISC

Anatomy of the spine

The intervertebral discs are located between each vertebrae in the spinal column. Of the vertebrae, there are 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (mid-back) and 5 lumbar (low back) discs. The discs make up approximately 1/3 of the spinal column. They have three main functions: (1) "Absorb shock" from everyday wear and tear. (2) Allow movement of our spinal column. (3) Separate the vertebrae.

The intervertebral disc is actually a type of cartilaginous joint. Discs consist of an outer layer, annulus fibrosis, and an inner nucleus pulposus, which is a soft, jelly-like, substance. The disc is made up of proteins called collagen and proteoglycans that attract water. Normally, discs compress when pressure is put on them and decompress when the pressure is relieved. These discs do not have a blood supply; therefore, they exchange nutrients by a process called "imbibition". Imagine a sponge filled with water; when that sponge is compressed, the water is forced out of the sponge. When the compressive force is removed, the water is "sucked" back into the sponge. This is precisely how discs stay healthy and functional. Diseased discs can lead to degenerative disc disease that can then lead to: arthritis, herniated discs, bulging discs, facet syndromes, sciatica and spinal stenosis.

A herniation describes an abnormal condition of an intervertebral disc. Some refer to this condition as a "slipped", "ruptured", or "blown" disc. Most of the time it is not known what caused the disc to herniate, but it is thought to occur from repetitive stress due to occupation, poor spinal posture, and/or natural processes of aging and/or trauma.

A herniation begins when the inner nucleus pulposus bulges through the annulus fibrosis, causing a bulging or protruding disc. This bulge may push on a spinal nerve. This interferes with the natural blood supply to the nerve roots and sets up a condition known as intraneural edema. Basically, the nerve root microcirculation is compressed and can progress to the point where the nucleus begins to leak out of the disc. At this point the body begins to fight back by launching an autoimmune response to the disc material (nucleus pulposus). The reaction of this defense mechanism causes severe inflammation and progressive deterioration of the nerve root. If the herniation is located in the cervical spine (neck), the symptoms can range from neck pain, with or without arm pain, to numbness and tingling. Muscle weakness can be common as well. If the herniated disc is located in the lumbar spine (low back), the symptoms can range from low back pain, with or without leg pain, to numbness and tingling. Muscle weakness is also common. This type of pain and/or numbness in the legs or arms is referred to as a "radiculopathy". This happens because the nerves that exit your spinal cord innervate ("attach to") the skin in your arms and legs. They are responsible for sensation and for movement of the muscles in your arms and legs. They are also responsible for the reflexive movements as well. This is the reason some individuals with these conditions experience extremity (leg/arm) pain / numbness / tingling and/or weakness when they have a herniated or bulging disc. Be aware that, some individuals with herniated discs may report arm or leg pain only, with minimal neck or low back pain.

Spinal stenosis (narrowing) is a common condition that affects many adults 50 yrs old and older. This occurs when the spinal canal, containing the nerve roots and spinal cord, becomes constricted or compressed. This can lead to a number of problems, depending on which nerves are affected. In general, lumbar spinal stenosis can cause cramping, pain or numbness in the legs, back; a loss of sensation in the extremities; and sometimes, in rare cases, problems with bladder or bowel function. In general, spinal narrowing is caused by osteoarthritis, or "wear and tear" arthritis, of the spinal column. This results in a "pinching" of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. People suffering from spinal stenosis may have trouble walking any significant distance, and usually must sit or lean forward over a grocery cart, countertop or assistive device such as a walker. Typically, a person with spinal stenosis complains about developing tremendous pain in the legs or calves and lower back after walking. Pain occurs more quickly when walking up hills. This is usually very reproducible and is almost immediately relieved by sitting down or leaning over. When the spine is flexed forward, more space is available for the spinal cord, causing a reduction in symptoms.

NON-SURGICAL SPINAL DECOMPRESSION

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression treats the root cause of the diseased or pathological disc based on the anatomical and physiological principles of Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression relieves pressure from the disc, which, in turn, relieves pressure from the nerve. "Nerve root flossing"

Research has shown that Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression creates a negative pressure within the disc causing a "vacuum effect". This vacuum effect can "suck" the disc material back inside, thus relieving the pressure from the nerve.

According to the FDA 510k papers, the definition of decompression is "unloading due to distraction and positioning", and additionally, "unweighting due to distraction and positioning". This is important because the "unloading" of the injured area creates positive changes in the microcirculation of the disc and nerve roots.

Therefore, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression for herniated discs is based on the following principles.

Patients are treated fully clothed and are fitted with a pelvic harness that fits around their pelvis as well as a thoracic harness as they lie face up on a computer controlled table. The doctor operates the table from a computerized console, where a customized treatment protocol is entered into the computer. Each treatment takes about 30 minutes. The average treatment protocol is approximately 20 to 25 treatments within a six to eight week period of time, depending on the individual's case.

A complete program targeting the function of the stabilization muscles is a vital part of True Non Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy. Adjustments, Core strengthening and adjunctive therapies such as ice, heat, interferential stimulation, Myofascial/Neuromuscular work and ultrasound can assist in rehabilitation of these structures. Our goal is to not only help heal the disc, but to also enhance muscular control and support of the back.

Drinking at least 1/2 ounce of water per pound per day will enhance the re-hydration process within the discs. Your physician will also recommend some nutritional supplements that will aid in the healing process.

Although there is no procedure that is 100% successful, non-surgical spinal decompression therapy has a high success rate with full compliance on the part of the patient. Your doctor will recommend that you refrain from certain activities and that you engage in a certain rehabilitation program either during or after your therapy. If you adhere to your prescribed therapy, you will enhance your chances of success.