What Causes Spinal Compression
Injury or trauma involving the spine
Intervertebral disc degeneration
Arthritis
Herniated or bulging discs
Injury to the spinal nerve root
Scarring from lumbar spine surgery
Posterior facet syndrome or worn spinal joints
Symptoms of Spinal Compression
Pain in the neck
Pain in the upper or lower back
Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
Pain when twisting or bending
How Spinal Decompression Works
It is important to treat spinal compression early to prevent the condition from worsening and reducing mobility. Decompressing the spine can improve pain and promote healing of affected musculoskeletal tissues near the spine. Treatment is performed using a traction technique to gently stretch, decompress, and align the spine. Traction takes the pressure off the spinal or intervertebral discs causing bulging or herniated discs to retract.
When properly done, spinal decompression helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, increase oxygen and blood flow, and improve mobility. It can also help avoid the need for surgery. Chiropractic care aims to treat the underlying cause of the condition to provide long-lasting relief rather than treating the symptoms—as is the case when pain medications are prescribed.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury for people involved in car collisions. When a car is struck from behind or collides with another object, it causes the neck to snap back and forth violently. This causes the muscles and ligaments to overextend, leading to strains and/or tears. This is referred to as soft tissue damage, and can cause stiffness and soreness. Whiplash can also cause structural damage such as misaligned vertebrae, herniated, bulging or ruptured discs, or nerve damage due to the overextension from the violent movement.
Chiropractic can help with both types of injuries. Adjustments and alignments can be performed specifically for those who have been in car accidents and suffered from whiplash. The pressure on the discs and nerves is released when the spine is returned to its proper alignment. Chiropractic massage can be used to help relieve the pain and discomfort from soft tissue injuries. If you have been in a car accident, schedule an appointment with us before relying on pain medications and surgery.