Many people are now looking for alternative non-invasive methods to get rid of chronic back and neck pain, rather than opting for surgery. If conservative modalities such as medications and steroid treatment do not work due to the occurrence of side effects, patients prefer alternative methods like physical therapy, chiropractic practice, etc.
While introducing new treatments like non-surgical spinal decompression to patients, the first question that comes in their mind is whether it is as same as traction therapy. Let’s explore the facts behind this question.
Comparing multiple treatments is like comparing the cart to a bicycle and then to a car. Although these are different forms of transport, can they be the same? No way! So, let’s go through the differences between traction therapy and non-surgical spinal decompression treatment.
Traction Therapy vs. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Treatment
Many research studies reveal that the controlled mechanical process of spinal stretching and relaxation can deliver faster pain relief. It’s the pressure on the spinal discs that causes the disc to bulge or herniate. To get rid of that pressure, chiropractors or physiotherapists use spinal decompression or traction therapy respectively.
Traction Therapy
Traction therapy is a dated technology where slings, rope, and pulleys are used to pull the patient in opposite directions mechanically to create a stretch. Here, it’s not possible to focus on a specific spinal area and even the intensity of force is also not monitored easily. Hence, there is a possibility of stretching nearby areas as well along with muscle guarding (painful muscle spasm) due to slack and grip. This process involves only the overall stretching and not just the target region.
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Treatment
Non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, unlike traction, is performed on a computerised decompression table that has multiple segments. Hence, it’s possible to change the angles of the applied force while focusing on specific discs. You can even separate the table into parts to stretch and release either the neck (cervical) region or the lower back (lumbar) region.
Since the table is computerizsd, the force applied will be constant measured through 7 sensors, thereby avoiding muscle guarding. There will be zero chance of human error as well. Even the force application is monitored automatically where the release occurs in every millisecond interval. The patient has to just lie on the decompression table. Furthermore, the table has 8 varied programs that offer multiple stretch protocols to both the posterior and anterior aspects of the spine region.
Thus, spinal decompression can reduce intradiscal pressure, increase circulation, decrease inflammation, improves mobility, and experience a positive physiological change. During the single decompression treatment, all it does is just hold and release 50% of the force accurately and repeat again.
Since the decompression table allows doctors to target treatment areas in multiple dimensions, it is possible to customize the treatment according to the unique needs. All it involves is just changing the amount of stretch, the number of stretches and relaxation, and the time it takes to reach the peak stretch and relaxation stage. These 3 major options can customize the session according to the age, weight, and severity of the condition. Chiropractors use spinal decompression therapy.
Overall Difference Between Traction and Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Simply put, traction means the application of gentle tension upon the spinal region for more space to relieve pressure in between the discs. However, non-surgical spinal decompression involves both gentle tension application along with intermittent controlled stretching and relaxation for tension relief. It basically alternates between stretching and relaxation.
In a nutshell, traction is the act of pulling or being pulled; whereas, spinal decompression is the act of pressure relief.
Final Thoughts
To know more about the differences between non-surgical spinal decompression and traction therapy, schedule an appointment with a specialist. The spinal decompression machine used at ANSSI Wellness offers advanced computerised control for safe treatment. Furthermore, the non-surgical spinal decompression treatment can effectively help ease your pain without resorting to surgical procedures.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
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