What is Causing the Pain?

• The spine is made of a chain of bones (vertebrae) that covers and protects the spinal cord, which carries sensory and motor messages to the brain.
• Discs separate each vertebra and are made of a jelly-like substance in the center (nucleus) that is covered with many strong outer layers (annulus); they act like a cushion in absorbing shock.
• Discs do not have direct blood supply—they depend on a transfer of fluids, nutrients, and oxygen from the bones (vertebrae) above and below.
• This transfer depends on the difference in pressure between the inside of the discs and the vertebrae and blood vessels.
• As we age, our discs are prone to injury and degeneration because the wear and tear on the spine is greater than its ability to heal and regenerate.
• If all the layers of the annulus break due to the increased pressure on the disc, the jelly-like nucleus will ooze out of the disc and cause a disc herniation.
• This herniation can press on spinal nerves, causing sciatica, muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and/or tingling/burning sensation along the nerves in the buttocks and legs.
• Repeated episodes of injury result in the degeneration of the disc, which becomes stiff and dry, causing it to lose its shock-absorbing properties.
• This process may continue until the disc is collapsed, which increases the mechanical pressure on the bones and joints leading to arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and facet syndrome.

The Treatment

• Prior to beginning the decompression/traction treatment, a physical therapy evaluation will be performed to assess flexibility, strength, and function.
• Once the appropriateness of treatment has been established, you relax on a whirlpool table.
• After muscles are warmed, you are properly positioned on the table for optimum benefits.
• The specific disc segment is gently decompressed to reduce the pressure inside the disc.
• A cold pack and electrical stimulation will be utilized after the treatment to reduce any soreness that may occur.
• Every treatment is completed under the direct guidance and supervision of our physical therapist.
• Flexibility and core stability will be addressed by our physical therapist to ensure you enjoy lasting benefits.