Spine decompression therapy has been approved by the Federal Drug Administration for chiropractors to use to relieve pain caused by a bulging or herniated disc, as well as pain in the back, legs, neck, and arm. Spine decompression therapy is considered less invasive than spinal surgery, anesthesia, or injections.

Even though spine decompression therapy is minimally invasive, there is still some risk involved. This is why your chiropractor will first give a physical exam, x-ray, and possibly an MRI, to determine if spine decompression therapy is right for you.

How does spine decompression therapy work? It relaxes the spine through specific positions, pulling the herniated disc material back inside through a vacuum effect. The decrease in pressure in the discs stimulates the blood supply and promotes healing. Spinal decompression treatment is often used for patients who have back or neck pain because of damaged discs, including herniated disc, bulging discs, narrowing of the spinal column or stenosis of the spine, sciatica, or radiculopathy. However, if the patient has experienced severe nerve damage, spinal decompression therapy may not be a viable option.

Are there any other exceptions for those who should not receive spinal decompression therapy? Pregnant women should not have spine decompression therapy because of the pressure applied to the abdomen, patients who have severe osteoporosis or degeneration of the spine, or if a patient has had implantation of screws, metal plates, or similar hardware in their spine.

The chiropractors at McKim Chiropractic offer the DRS Protocol™, a safe, non-surgical treatment for back pain associated with spinal and disc problems. Call McKim Chiropractic today for more information about spine decompression therapy and to schedule a consultation. Our licensed and certified staff is happy to help the residents of Nampa, ID achieve a pain-free life!