Neck Decompression Therapy
Decompression therapy is a new way to bring relief for neck pain and headache sufferers. It is used for problems involving not only the discs, but also the soft tissues which stabilize the spine. Conditions which respond well to treatment include herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, posterior facet syndrome, pinched nerves, general neck pain, and headaches which have a neck tension component. Longstanding whiplash injuries and old sports traumas are also good candidates.
The treatments are safe and painless. They are also pleasant and relaxing. We simply have the patient lie on the Decompression Table, with the head supported by a comfortable cradle. The table then provides intermittent distraction pressure, which is controlled by a computer. The table has built in sensors which adjust to any change of position by the patient during the treatment.
In disc bulging or herniation, the distraction gently pulls the neck vertebra away from each other, elongating the neck and creating a small vacuum between the vertebrae. In turn, this pulls on the damaged disc, drawing it back into shape. The distraction pressure, repeated over a series of treatments, restores nutrition and hydration to the disc. The disc gradually heals and reshapes itself. The resulting disc regeneration that comes from neck decompression therapy has been documented by MRI and x-ray studies in numerous published reports.
The same distraction pressure can be used to release soft tissue restrictions. Longstanding tightness of the neck often responds to this approach. This can be very useful in chronic neck pain, headaches, and arm symptoms which come from pinched nerves in the neck.
Complements to neck decompression therapy include Osteopathic manipulation, acupuncture, specifically prescribed exercises, heat, and nutritional supplements.
Safe, gentle, and effective, neck decompression is a great alternative to surgery and prescription pain management approaches.