How can chiropractic spinal traction help chronic back pain?

Back pain is a real pain in the neck (literally!). If you deal with back pain, it is challenging to find relief. The good news is that there are pain-relieving options out there for you. One of these is through spinal traction. Let’s take a look at how chiropractic spinal traction can help your chronic back pain. 

What is spinal traction? 

Spinal or lumbar traction is a treatment for back and neck pain. When receiving spinal traction, the spine is pulled or stretched to release pressure between the vertebrae. By stretching your spinal disks, it takes the pressure off the gel-like cushions in between these disks. 

Who can it help? 

Spinal traction therapy is a great option for several different types of back problems. Here are some back problems that spinal traction can help: 

• Slipped discs
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Sciatica
• Pinched nerves
• Realignment of the cervical spine
• Muscle strain
• Neck pain 

By stretching the spine through spinal traction, many people have found relief from their chronic pain. 

How does my chiropractor use spinal traction? 

Normally a chiropractor will use the traditional method of administering spinal traction, which involves either manually pulling the spine or using a device like a harness. In the case in which a  harness is used, it is attached to the torso, neck, or head and used to pull the body and stretch out the spinal column. 

The treatment can take anywhere between 30 and 45 minutes. Depending on how severe your chronic pain is will determine for how long and how many times your chiropractor will want you to receive this treatment. 

Some chiropractors also perform nonsurgical spinal decompression. This is almost the same as spinal traction, but the main difference is that the harness is pulled by a mechanical device like this one. 

Your chiropractor will assess your neck and back and decide how much pressure to apply while performing the spinal traction therapy. As your back is stretched, it relieves the pressure in between your discs and allows herniated or bulging discs to draw back. This lets your nerves and muscles feel relief from the build-up of pressure in your spine. 

What are the side effects of spinal traction therapy?

There are not many documented side effects of receiving spinal traction therapy. However, it is common for some patients receiving it to get muscle spasms before or after their treatment. These spasms are not dangerous and usually subside within a few minutes. 

Spinal traction is an excellent option for those who are exploring non-surgical options to relieve their back and neck pain. When receiving these treatments, you can expect less pain, better posture, and decompression of your joints. Doesn’t that sound like a great relief? Some people decide to combine their spinal traction with physical therapy and receive even more pain-relieving benefits. 

Find a chiropractor near you who can help you explore your options with spinal traction therapy. While it may not be the answer for everyone, many have found great relief for their chronic back pain. 

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At Better Day Chiropractic, we’re dedicated to serving you throughout your pregnancy and postpartum recovery. We also offer sports, family, and pediatric chiropractic care. If you are located in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, reach out to us today.