A decompression table is a device used by chiropractors to provide nonsurgical neural decompression in the spine. However, to understand how decompression tables work, it may help to understand more about the spinal anatomy.
The spine consists of the spinal cord and nerve roots branching off the spinal cord. These important nerve superhighways are protected inside a column of stacked vertebrae which are cushioned by soft intervertebral discs. The spinal column also is comprised of facet joints, small muscles, and ligaments. Over time, the cartilaginous lining of the facet joints and the cartilaginous walls of intervertebral discs begin to deteriorate, which can lead to bulging discs, herniated discs, bone spurs, pinched nerves, radiculopathy, and more. It is not uncommon for these abnormalities in the spinal anatomy to compress nearby spinal nerves. A chiropractic decompression table, therefore, attempts to release nerve compression my manipulating the spinal anatomy back into place.
Types of Decompression Tables
Decompression tables are used in a variety of ways, including:
- Inversion techniques – The patient is strapped to a tilted table that can be adjusted at various angles. Gravity stretches the spine and, ideally, pulls spinal abnormalities back into place.
- Traction – The affected part is strapped to a decompression table to ensure immobilization. Bands, belts, or pulleys are then used to stretch the spine and open up the spaces between vertebrae to release neural pressure.
- Mechanical decompression – New models of decompression tables use a mechanical vacuum effect, referred to as “intradiscal negative pressure,” to decompress spinal nerves.
Alternatives to Decompression Table Treatment
Chiropractic work is not for everyone and, in many cases, degenerative spine conditions like a ruptured disc or a disc protrusion will heal over time with a regimen of conservative treatments like pain medication, exercise, and short periods of rest. However, if weeks or months of conservative treatment have not provided you with sufficient pain relief, contact Laser Spine Institute. We offer a variety of minimally invasive, procedures that focus on neural decompression in the back and neck. For more information and for a free review of your MRI or CT scan, contact us today.