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Our Advanced Flexion-Distraction (similar to spinal decompression) technique is widely accepted and effective treatment for:

  • Lumbar (low back) disc herniation (see below)
  • Ruptured Disc
  • Failed Back Surgical Syndromes
  • Sciatica / Leg Pain
  • Stenosis
  • Spondylolisthesis

 

Flexion Distraction vs. Spinal Decompression

Flexion-Distraction Technique may have a huge advantage over another type of low backpain treatment called spinal decompression. That is: the cost of treatment.

Since flexion-distraction technique is performed on an adjusting table, there is no additional charge for this proven treatment. It’s included with your adjustment, whereas most spinal decompression treatments have an additional charge.

 

What is a Ruptured Disc?

The intervetebral discs are the cushions that act as shock absorbers between each of the vertebra in your spine. There is one disc between each vertebra. Each disc has a strong outer ring of fibers called the annulus, and a soft, jelly-like center called the nucleus pulposus.

The annulus is the disc’s outer layer and the strongest area of the disc. The annulus is actually a strong ligament that connects each vertebra together. The mushy nucleus of the disc serves as the main shock absorber.

A herniated disc occurs when the intervertebral disc’s outer fibers (the annulus) are damaged and the soft inner material of the nucleus pulposus ruptures out of its normal space. If the annulus tears near the spinal canal, the nucleus pulposus material can push into the spinal canal.

 

Herniated discA herniated disc causes problems in two ways.

 First, the material that has ruptured into the spinal canal from the nucleus pulposus can cause pressure on the nerves in the spinal canal. There is also some evidence that the nucleus pulposus material causes a chemical irritation of the nerve roots. Both the pressure on the nerve root and the chemical irritation can lead to problems with how the nerve root works. The combination of the two can cause pain, weakness, and/or numbness in the area of the body that the nerve usually goes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a true herniated disc may not include back pain at all! The symptoms of a herniated disc come from pressure on, and irritation of, the nerves. However, many people do have back pain because they have other problems in their back when the disc ruptures. The symptoms of a herniated disc usually include:

  • Pain that travels into one or both legs
  • Numbness or tingling in areas of one or both legs
  • Muscle weakness in certain muscles of one or both legs
  • Loss of the reflexes in one or both legs

 

Chiropractic chair
Flexion Distraction table for Spinal Decompression

Our office uses the Galaxy McManis computerized flexion distraction table. It is most advanced flexion-distraction table made for low back disc syndromes and, great for treating other low back syndromes including sciatica. Flexion – distractions techniques use a precision table that makes vertebral movements to release pressure on the spinal nerves and low back discs. The technique creates a suction effect that allows the disc to return to it’s ideal orientation thus reducing low back and leg pain. The type of flexion distraction offered at our office is well – studied and widely accepted as an effective treatment for many spinal conditions. Government research has proved flexion – distraction can:

  1. Increase the size of the intervertebral foramen therefore reducing pressure on nerves leading to less pain
  2. Reduces intradiscal pressure which allows the disc to heal
  3. Increases disc height which in turn slows arthritic changes in the low back.

Our Patient Diana R. R.N. States:

After a treatment on the Flexion Distraction table, I immediately came away with improved flexibility and decreased discomfort. The passive weightless movement of the spine feels so wonderful and relaxing! …this treatment has also prevented me from having low back disc surgery.”

The most common use of flexion-distraction can aid in the successful treatment of:

  • Lumbar disc syndrome
  • Sciatica / leg pain
  • Restless Leg Syndrome
  • Stenosis
  • Spondylolishesis
  • Arm and neck pain
  • Chronic low back pain with sitting
  • With over 25 years of experience in treatment of low back pain, we could have an effective treatment plan to reduce your pain.

Where these symptoms occur depends on which nerve has been affected in the lumbar spine. Therefore, the location of the symptoms helps determine your diagnosis. Knowing where the pain is perceived gives your Dr. Snider a better idea of which disc has probably ruptured.