Cervical spinal decompression uses surgical and non-surgical techniques to help relieve chronic neck pain, herniated discs, or sciatica. Cervical spinal decompression therapy is necessary to prevent the vertebrae from squeezing the intervertebral discs. When the discs experience excessive pressure or wear down over time, it can cause the discs to compress against the spinal cord and nerves. This may result in pain, tingling, or numbness.
If you are interested in cervical spinal decompression treatment, let our team help. Victory Spine Center offers a range of chiropractic treatments to relieve neck pain, including spinal traction. Call us at 707-509-1143 to learn more.
The cervical spine is the neck area of the spine and consists of seven vertebrae that begin at the base of the skull. It has several functions, such as protecting the spinal cord while also supporting the head and its movements. The cervical spine also consists of several muscles, ligaments, and nerves that all work together to keep the head and neck level.
Repetitive stress and natural wear and tear can cause the degeneration of the cervical spinal discs. These discs lie between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers between them. Over time, they wear down and cause the vertebrae to press against the nerves in the spinal cord. This degenerative process can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands. It can also cause the neck to feel stiff, and an individual may find it harder to move or rotate their head.
Cervical degenerative disc disease is fairly common. Research shows that degenerative disc disease affects about 25% of those under the age of 40. This number increases to 60% after people are over the age of 40.
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Non-surgical cervical spinal decompression applies the principles of spinal traction used by chiropractors, osteopathic doctors, and physical therapists. A traction table designed for the cervical spine creates negative pressure between the vertebrae by intermittently stretching and relaxing the neck. When negative pressure occurs, there is less pressure placed on the nerve roots of the neck, which can alleviate pain, tingling, and numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands, as well as improve movement and comfort in the neck.
This type of motorized cervical spinal decompression differs from traditional traction therapy, as the sensors can detect both resistance and relaxation. They can then increase or decrease tension. In comparison, traditional traction therapy is a simple and consistent pull that can trigger the muscles of the neck to tighten, which is less comfortable and effective. Decompression therapy also alternates between stretching and relaxation, which makes it less likely for the muscles to retract.
During a typical cervical decompression session, the patient lies on their back on a padded table. Their head is cradled and supported by a rubber wedge and a nylon strap that crosses the base of their head. A padded strap across the forehead helps stabilize their head during the treatment session.
The motorized device then applies gentle pressure for a specific amount of time. This is followed by a pausing period to relax and decrease the stretch. This cycle repeats for the remainder of the treatment session. While the patient will feel the pressure, the process should not be painful.
Candidates for spinal decompression are people who suffer from persistent neck, arm, and shoulder pain resulting from a bulging or herniated disc or disc degeneration. Non-surgical approaches that stretch the cervical spine are not appropriate for patients with conditions such as:
A cervical spinal decompression session typically lasts about 15 to 25 minutes. The chiropractor may recommend several sessions depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and pain. Typically, we recommend 20 to 28 treatments over the course of five to six weeks. While some patients may only need a few sessions, others may need more to feel complete relief from their pain and discomfort. No treatment payment is one-size-fits-all, so we will discuss follow-up care and the continuing treatment options with each of our patients.
In addition to spinal decompression, the patient may receive other therapy types. These may include electrical stimulation, ultrasound therapy, and heat or cold therapy. The chiropractor may also recommend neck stretches and exercises to help prevent future issues.
The cervical spine plays a critical role in the body’s ability to move, and neck issues can greatly affect one’s quality of life. At Victory Spine Center, we offer cervical spinal decompression treatments and can help get you back to your everyday life without neck pain and headaches. Call our office at 707-509-1143 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
What does cervical spinal decompression therapy feel like?
You will feel pressure as your cervical spine is stretched. It may be slightly uncomfortable as it straightens and stretches your neck. However, the process is not painful, and the mild pressure on the cervical spine releases pressure from the spinal nerves and helps your neck relax.
Does cervical spinal decompression provide lasting results?
Due to the therapy addressing the source of the pain rather than just treating the symptoms, it can provide effective and long-lasting results. It is often used in combination with other therapeutic options, such as hot and cold therapy and electrical stimulation. At the end of the treatment plan, you may also opt for a periodic treatment session to maintain positive results.
Will I need more than one treatment session?
Though many patients feel immediate relief, it can take several treatment sessions to address the root cause of the pain fully. Depending on the severity of your pain and condition, you may need up to 28 treatment sessions to achieve maximum relief. Our team is more than happy to discuss your treatment options with you.
If treatment doesn’t work, will I need surgery?
While non-surgical cervical decompression is effective for many patients, some may need other avenues of treatment. We cannot solely determine if you will need surgery or not. However, we will work with you and your primary care provider to determine the best option for you and your health.
Does insurance cover non-surgical cervical spinal decompression?
Most insurance policies do cover chiropractic care. Some patients may need to pay a copay. Call our office at 707-509-1143 if you have questions or concerns about the cost of treatment. We are more than happy to go over your insurance benefits with you.
Victory Spine Center is located at 3000 Alamo Dr. Suite 200 Vacaville, CA 95687.