duminică, 6 martie 2016

Some Facts On Spinal Decompression Santa Monica Patients Should Know

By John Potter


Chronic back pain causes varying degrees of discomfort depending on the cause. It has been shown to be a leading cause of reduced productivity and absenteeism in the workplace. The source of this pain may be any anatomical structure of the spine that impinges on adjacent nerves. Spinal decompression is one of the effective treatments for this problem. There is some important information on Spinal Decompression Therapy Santa Monica residents will find helpful.

The techniques that are used for decompression are broadly classified into non-surgical and surgical. The non-surgical decompression is most effective if the cause is a displaced intervertebral disc. In this method, you will be put on motorized traction. Your spinal column will be gently stretched to restore its natural shape and intrinsic force. When this happens, the pressure in the intervertebral space is reduced and the disc slips back into position.

One session usually lasts between 30 minutes and forty five minutes. The time taken depends on the severity of the problem initially and the kind of response that is shown over time. 20 t0 28 sessions are usually given in a span of 5 to 8 weeks. There are several other treatments that may also be offered before or after to enhance the response. They include heat and cold therapies, electrical stimulation and the use of ultrasound.

There are a number of situations in which traction is contraindicated or deemed inappropriate. If it is performed on pregnant women, for example, there is a risk of harming the fetus hence alternative techniques should be used. It should also not be used in persons with fractures due to the risk of worsening the injury. Other contraindications include abdominal tumors, some bone conditions such as osteoporosis and the presence of metallic spinal implants.

The surgical technique is considered when all other options have failed to relieve the symptoms. It is used for conditions such as ruptured intervertebral discs, bony growths and other masses related to soft tissues. It helps to release pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. There are different types of surgical operations that can be performed depending on the underlying problem.

The types of surgery performed is named based on the anatomical structure that is incised or removed. Discectomy, for example, is the surgical removal of a disc. It is possible to do this through an open technique or by use of endoscopy. Laminectomy involves partial removal of the lamina, the arch of a vertebra. In corpectomy, the entire vertebra and the adjacent disc are removed. Others include foraminectomy and osteophyte removal.

Complications may be encountered after surgery. Some occur in the immediate and intermediate post-operative period while others are seen much later. The common short term complications include excessive bleeding, nerve fiber damage and surgical site infection. In the remote post-operative period, spinal instability is a possibility.

Decompressing the spine can be achieved through traction or surgery. Each approach is associated with various advantages and disadvantages. The conservative approach (or traction) is by far the more preferred modality. Surgery is a last resort. It is important that the patient is educated on all the merits and demerits so that they can make an informed decision.




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