Treatment
Spinal Decompression
Decompression therapy takes pressure off a bulging or herniated disk so the nerves and structures around it get some relief. There are two routes — non-surgical and surgical — and Dr. Brent Reiche can tell you which one is worth considering in your case.
When decompression is worth considering
Chronic back or neck pain can make even the simplest tasks hard. Often the pain comes from a bulging or herniated disk in the spine, pressing on nerves and other spinal structures.
Adding spinal decompression therapy to your treatment program is one way to help relieve that discomfort. It is not a standalone fix — it goes into a plan built around your own condition, and Dr. Reiche can tell you how decompression might fit your recovery.
Two routes: non-surgical and surgical
Non-surgical decompression uses motorized traction to stretch the spine. This gentle procedure reduces pressure on herniated and bulging disks and may cause them to retract, so the body can get on with healing. This is the form of decompression we provide in the clinic — our non-surgical spinal decompression page walks through what a session actually involves.
Surgical decompression is for more serious cases, and may be suggested for people with bony growths or ruptured disks. Types include corpectomy, laminotomy and diskectomy.
What non-surgical decompression aims to do
This non-invasive therapy is often included as part of a treatment plan, and can complement other therapies such as massage. Its aims are:
- Improved oxygen, blood flow and movement of nutrients to the affected area, promoting healing
- Reduced pressure on injured disks, often causing bulging or herniated disks to retract
- Decreased pressure on the surrounding nerves and structures
- Being able to perform daily activities and exercises more easily
- Reduced pain in the back or neck
How we work out whether it suits you
Consultation
You talk through the pain, your health history and what it is stopping you doing with Dr. Brent Reiche.
Examination
A chiropractic examination, plus standard neurological, orthopedic, postural and physical tests. X-rays if your condition calls for them.
Recommendation
At the report of findings, Dr. Reiche explains what he found and whether decompression belongs in your plan — and tells you if your condition needs care from another provider.
A course of treatment
People may need a series of in-office treatments, each lasting up to 45 minutes. Patients often experience less discomfort, inflammation and muscle tension soon after a session.
Common questions
What is the difference between non-surgical and surgical decompression?
Non-surgical decompression stretches the spine with motorized traction and involves no incision. Surgical decompression is an operation used for more serious cases, such as bony growths or ruptured disks. Non-surgical is the kind we provide here.
Is non-surgical decompression painful?
It is described as a gentle procedure — the table applies a slow, controlled stretch rather than a forceful one. Tell the chiropractor at any point how it is feeling.
How long is each session, and how many will I need?
Each session may last up to 45 minutes, and individuals may require a series of in-office treatments. The number depends on your condition and how you respond, which Dr. Reiche will discuss with you.
Can I have decompression alongside other treatment?
Yes. Non-surgical decompression can complement a range of other therapies, such as massage therapy, and is often one part of a wider plan. See our therapies and techniques.
How do I find out if I am suitable?
Book a consultation and examination. For more information about spinal decompression, contact Active Chiropractic at (207) 571-8028.
Related
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses motorized traction to gently stretch the spine and take pressure off…
Sciatica Care in Saco, ME
Sciatica is pain, numbness or tingling that starts in the lower back and travels down the leg. It happens…
Therapies & Techniques
Alongside chiropractic adjustment, our Saco, ME clinic uses a range of hands-on and equipment-based…
Ready to feel better?
Book online in under a minute, or call the practice and we will find you a time that works.