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| It is one of our goals to make sure our patients have a
complete understanding of what we do and chiropractic in general.
If you have any questions regarding any of our services or procedures
you can call our office at (602) 789-1078 or send an email to Dr.
Bronson |
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| What is disc herniation? |
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Compression
"Decompression" & Herniation
ETIOLOGY OF HERNIATION
When the annulus fibrosus is weakened by
radial tears, the intradiscal pressure of the nucleus pulposus will cause
it to bulge, leading to protrusion and herniation
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Over time, compression weakens
the annulus, creating tears, inflammation and possible protrusion of the
nucleus. The increase of intradiscal pressure sets the stage for
annular compromise, allowing extrusion of the nucleus through the tears (herniation)
and possible irritation of the nerve roots. |
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Negative intradiscal pressure created by "decompressive"
traction therapy facilitates nutrition and diffusion into the disc
improving healing. In some cases actual "retraction" of
the protruded material may take place. However, often an improved
healing response reducing inflammation is the source of pain relief. |
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What
is disc decompression and DTS therapy?
- Research has proven discs may be a primary
site of back and leg pain, as well as neck and arm pain
- The disc is damaged by "compression
& flexion" ['squishing'].
- The disc is avascular (it has no direct
blood supply). It gets its nutrients in and waste products out
by diffusion [like a sponge]. The healthier the disc the
greater its' diffusion
- Over time loss of strength of the lower
abdominal and low back muscles, poor posture, trauma etc. increase
the "compression" on the discs, especially of the lower
discs [L4/L5] and the mid-neck discs [C5/C6]
- DTS therapy stretches the spine in a safe,
controlled and very specific way to open the disc spaces. This
decreases the pressure on the discs and allows an increase of blood
flow to help reduce inflammation and heal the area.
- Research indicates in some cases bulges may
be pulled or drawn in by DTS decompression and help relieve
pinched nerves.
- As with all therapy your adherence to
the treatment advise and protocols are vital to ensure the best
possible outcome. Additionally, though
"Decompression" therapy can help many back
conditions it is not a 'cure' for everyone. Many times disc
damage cannot be fully healed due to the extent of damage or the
continuation of irritating activities.
- Since traction works with the body's natural
healing process it does take time to gain full relief. Twelve
sessions is the usual minimum number fir disc injuries, especially
with leg or arm radiation [if the condition continues to improve a
maintenance program maybe beneficial] & don't skip
rehab/exercises
- "Decompression" is a safe and
comfortable treatment for most. It rarely causes pain or
worsens symptoms [if traction is painful it is simply
discontinued]. Occasionally spasms can create post treatment
discomfort (ice or electric stimulation will usually relieve it).
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