3 Signs You Need Spinal Decompression

The spine connects different parts of the musculoskeletal system. Between the vertebrae lie flexible spinal discs containing a gel-like substance. These discs act as shock absorbers. When you experience persistent back pain and problems with mobility, you might have a herniated disk. In this case, you might find relief with spinal decompression.  

What is the Spine?

The spine, or backbone, is a complex structure that protects a central channel containing the spinal cord nerves and blood vessels. As the body’s main support structure, it helps you move, twist, sit, bend, and walk. Critical parts of the spine include the spinal cord, nerves, discs, and vertebrae. 

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression refers to a group of treatments meant to take pressure off the spine to provide back pain relief. Spinal degeneration or injuries can cause pain. You might experience pain from spinal compression that puts too much pressure on your nerves or spinal cord. The purpose of spinal decompression is to relieve stress and eliminate pain and discomfort. 

Conditions that a Spinal Decompression Can Address

Common reasons why people seek this treatment include:
 

• Herniated discs

• Bulging discs

• Degenerative discs

• Sciatica

• Pinched nerves

• Spinal stenosis

Do You Need Spinal Decompression?

The conditions listed above may qualify you for this treatment. However, it is best to consult a spine specialist to determine whether you are a candidate for spinal decompression therapy. You might benefit from this treatment if you notice the following signs:

Back Pain

Are you experiencing chronic pain in your lower back? If so, you may have a herniated disc. Often, the pain manifests in one side of the body and can radiate down into the shoulder, arm, or leg. 

Sometimes, it can be due to a severely torn disc, resulting in stabbing pain that can make sleeping at night difficult. Many patients find that various spinal decompression techniques help relieve chronic back pain. 

Foot or Leg Pain

Pain in the lower spinal region can radiate to the leg and foot. It travels from the buttocks, down the back of the leg, to the foot. Doctors refer to this condition as sciatica, which results from the compression of the nerves that send messages. Most patients describe the pain they experience as a pinching sensation or dull, nagging ache. 

Foot or Leg Weakness

Sometimes, a herniated disc compresses the nerves that send messages to your muscles. That can lead to reduced function in your foot or leg muscles, resulting in weakness that can affect normal movement and gait. Consequently, you may have trouble walking long distances, ascending stairs, rising from a seated position, and doing other activities. 

It would help if you understood that there are other possible reasons for each of these signs. If you are experiencing one or more of these signs, consult a qualified spinal expert to determine the cause of your symptoms. Nonsurgical spinal decompression and chiropractic adjustments promise dramatic improvements in the disability index and pain relief.

For more on spinal decompression, visit Greater Nashville Health Institute at our office in Gallatin, Tennessee. Call (615) 583-4006 to book an appointment today.