The Techniques Used In Spinal Decompression Conroe Clients Should Know

By William Young


There are many spine conditions that may cause back pain. A displaced inter-vertebral disc is one of those that are most frequently encountered. Displacement is commonly caused by one of two events; a blunt force to the spinal region or a heavy lifting event. Spinal decompression is the treatment of choice for a significant number of cases of back pain including herniated discs. There are some important facts relating to spinal decompression Conroe residents need to know.

In general, the methods that are employed fall under two broad categories. The first category is that of conservative (non-invasive) methods. The main technique considered here is known as traction. In traction, a gentle force is applied along the length of the spine with the aim of restoring the natural intrinsic forces within it. The result of this exercise is a reduction in the pressure within the inter-vertebral space. The displaced disc falls back into its position and relieves the impingement of nerves.

Traction is usually offered on an outpatient basis over several weeks. A special computerized table is used. The force is applied to tow harnesses strapped to the pelvis (you do not have to remove your clothes for this). The force that is to be applied is fed onto the computer and the process is initiated. The entire exercise lasts 30 minutes to an hour. On average, about twenty sessions are needed for the full benefits to be realized.

You need to understand that traction is not suitable for everyone. There are several situations that make the procedure an inappropriate mode of management for back pain. One of such situations is the existence of long bone fractures in one or both limbs (lower). There is a risk of aggravating such injuries and delaying healing. Other contraindications include the presence of metallic implants, osteoporosis, and pelvic tumors among others.

Surgical decompression is in many cases a last resort intervention. It is considered after all the conservative methods have been exhausted. Many different types of surgeries exist and are named based on the spinal component to be removed. Examples include foraminectomy, laminectomy, discectomy and corpectomy among others. The choice of surgery is primarily determined by the nature of underlying illness.

If a decision to have surgery is made, you have to be taken through post-operative work up to determine whether you are fit enough. Depending on the spinal level that is affected that operation will be performed under general or regional anesthesia. For instance, is the problem is in the cervical region, you will be subjected to general anesthesia but if it is much lower in the spine (lower lumbar region) spinal anesthesia may be administered.

You need to be alive to the fact that there is a risk of complications. The immediate concerns include excessive bleeding, nerve injury and surgical site infection. Later on, there is a risk of ending up with spinal instability. This is more likely if large parts of vertebral bones are removed. Spinal fusion may be needed to restore stability if very severe.

Compression of nerve routes is a major cause of chronic back pain. This event comes about when an inter-vertebral disc prolapses, a vertebral bone is broken or a tumor grows near the nerves. This pain is usually also experienced on the limbs since the nerves are also distributed in these regions. It is important to understand this relationship if as you seek treatment for the same.




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