Sciatica Pain Relief From Spinal Decompression
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a type of pain that occurs throughout the lower back and extends down the hips, buttocks, and legs, along the sciatic nerve. Sciatica occurs when there is pressure on the sciatic nerve, often caused by a herniated disk, bone spur, or a narrowing of the spine. Sciatica can cause pain, inflammation, and even numbness in the leg, often on only one side of the body. The pain caused by sciatica can vary, ranging from a dull ache to a burning sensation or excruciating pain. Sciatica is often aggravated by long periods of sitting although sudden attacks of pain can be caused by sudden movements, such as sneezing.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a form of chiropractic care that helps to relieve pressure on the spine by slightly elongating it. This non-invasive treatment is performed by trained and licensed chiropractors and it requires particular equipment. During a spinal decompression session, the chiropractor will use a computerized spinal decompression table. You will lie on this table either face down or face up and have a harness placed on you. Your chiropractor may use pillows to keep you comfortable and the spine in the right place. Once you are in place and comfortable, the computerized spinal decompression table will slightly pull and stretch the spine using an oscillating motion. To ensure patient safety and effective treatment, the spinal decompression table is programmed to monitor the muscles; if they are too tensed, the table will decrease the pulling pressure until the muscles relax, and then stretching will continue when muscles are ready.
How Can Spinal Decompression Help Relieve Sciatica Pain?
Spinal decompression therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive way of treating sciatica. The negative pressure within the spine that is created through spinal decompression encourages herniated disks to return to their proper location. When the disk slips back into place, it relieves pressure off of the sciatic nerve and will reduce pain. Spinal decompression also encourages the flow of oxygen and nutrients within the spine, which aids in the healing of herniated disks, so that the issue does not redevelop later. Although it is a great option, spinal decompression is not the only form of chiropractic care to assist in the treatment of sciatica pain. Patients may be interested in discussing various forms of chiropractic treatment with their Calgary chiropractor.
Spinal Decompression With A Calgary Chiropractor
If you have been suffering from pain in your lower back, especially if that pain radiates throughout your lower body, you may have sciatica. By scheduling a consultation with a Calgary chiropractor, you can know for sure what is causing your pain and you can begin treatment. In Alberta, there are select doctors who are certified in the Kennedy Spinal Decompression Therapy for neck and low back treatment. Dr. Jay Shephard belongs to this group of certified doctors. At Shephard Health, our staff will work to determine if you are a viable candidate for spinal decompression and then we will listen to your health goals and work together to come up with a plan to relieve you of your symptoms as fast as possible. To schedule a consultation with a Calgary chiropractor at Shephard Health, call 1-403-543-7499 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: Are there other ways to treat lower back pain?
A: There are other chiropractic methods used to treat lower back pain including sciatica and other causes of pain. Read 4 Chiropractic Treatments For Lower Back Pain to learn more.
Q: Does spinal decompression hurt?
A: The treatment may be slightly uncomfortable as you feel some stretching, but it should not cause pain. After the treatment, your muscles may feel sore, similar to how they would feel after a good workout.
Q: Does Shephard Health offer combined chiropractic treatments?
A: Yes, we often combine treatments for greater effect. We can combine any treatment, for example, chiropractic care, shockwave therapy, and Active Release Techniques (ART®).
