Back pain is the worldwide biggest cause of disability. Although you may feel like you’re suffering alone if you suffer from back problems, that’s not true at all.
It also might feel like there’s no escape from it. Back pain can cost you your mobility and your freedom, making you feel trapped. It often makes people unmotivated to find a solution, thinking there isn’t one.
There is a lot that can be done, though! Read on to find out about the pros and cons of spinal decompression — it might be the solution you’d never thought of, but the one that would work for you.
What is Spinal Decompression?
Before discussing the pros and cons of this method to relieve back pain, it’s important to understand what exactly this procedure is.
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical way to stretch out the spine and help your back. By changing the position of the spine and the pressure placed on certain points, herniated discs might be pulled back and relieve any pain or problems.
Oxygen and water can then flow into the nerves and the parts of the spine that have been pressured for so long and promote a more natural way of healing.
To achieve this, a traction table is used, though it’s often just thought of as a spinal decompression machine. Although it can look intimidating at first glance, there’s nothing to be afraid of, and this procedure has become increasingly popular as a method of promoting healing and relieving pressure!
The Pros
There are many pros to spinal decompression, which is why it’s become so popular as of late. These are just a few of them.
No Damaging Drugs or Invasive Surgery
When it comes to healing from any disease or injury, surgery and drugs are often involved. This can concern many patients — after all, drugs can become addictive, and invasive surgeries usually pose some risk because of the anesthesia. Many people prefer to find alternative and more natural ways of dealing with their problems.
With spinal decompression therapy, there are no drugs and there’s no surgery. It’s a very non-invasive method, which some people take comfort in.
Understandably!
Painless
Although the traction table might look daunting and you might feel nervous about the process, spinal decompression therapy is actually completely painless. The main problem you’re likely to have throughout the procedure is getting bored!
In fact, many people fall asleep while getting this done. Once you’ve had it done the first time, you’ll realize there was nothing to worry about — you just need to get over the first hurdle.
Treats the Problem Directly
Rather than many treatments for back problems that simply manage the symptoms of pain and lack of mobility, spinal decompression is targeting the problem itself. This means it’s not intended to be a quick fix with a returning issue, but it will work in the long-term.
Proven to Be Effective
With up to an 86% success rate, spinal decompression therapy is effective. It’s especially effective for herniated discs.
Some people are a little skeptical about it, but the research is there to prove it works — and is especially effective for certain issues.
While it’s always important to do your research and get a professional opinion about the specific problem you have, spinal decompression has really proven itself over the years, and it’s worth a shot.
The Cons
As with anything, there are a couple of cons to this procedure. They should be kept in mind.
Not Suitable for Everyone
If you have certain conditions, stretching out your spine isn’t safe. For example, having high blood pressure can make this procedure unsuitable, as can being pregnant or having fractures.
For a complete opinion, speak to the person performing the therapy and be completely honest about everything going on. Lying could only end up causing more problems, and they can only truly advise you if this is safe if they have all of the necessary knowledge about your health.
Can Be Costly
Spinal decompression therapy can cost over $100,000. Like so many medical expenses, it’s a high one to take on.
Sadly, many insurance companies aren’t extensive with their coverage when it comes to this sort of thing. Before deciding on this therapy, it’s important to check what your insurance policies are and make sure you can afford this.
Otherwise, you might end up in a lot of medical debt.
Takes Multiple Sessions
Whereas surgery might be a quick-fix for many problems, this non-surgical procedure isn’t a quick fix and done!
One session might be enough to relieve the pain but to fix the problem, but you will have to attend multiple sessions. How many depends on your issue and how quickly you’re recovering from it and is individual to each person, but you can bank on it being multiple.
However, if you’re willing to commit, it could do you a world of good.
Consider the Pros and Cons of Spinal Decompression Carefully — but It Might Be the Answer
There are many pros and cons of spinal decompression. It isn’t for everyone, since certain health issues can rule you out of being a good candidate for this procedure, but if you have a herniated disc and are otherwise healthy, it might be just what you’re looking for.
Always get a professional opinion from someone experienced in the field while doing your research! They should be able to advise on what’s best.
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