Sciatica can be classified as what is called discogenic pain. While surgery is sometimes necessary, conservative approaches are preferred whenever possible. One tool used by your healthcare providers is called flexion-distraction technique. This is a non-invasive and gentle chiropractic method, which has shown significant promise in providing relief for patients suffering from discogenic/sciatic pain.
Understanding Discogenic/Sciatic Pain
Discogenic pain typically arises from damaged or degenerated spinal discs. When these discs bulge, herniate, or degenerate, they can pathologically interact with the nearby nerves, causing discomfort and pain. The sciatic nerve, in particular, is a common victim of this compression, leading to radiating pain in the lower back, buttocks, and the back of the legs.
Traditional Treatment Options
Traditionally, patients with discogenic/sciatic pain might consider surgery as a primary treatment option. While surgical intervention can be effective, it comes with inherent risks, prolonged recovery periods, and potential complications. Conservative treatments are often preferred as they can help patients avoid surgery and reduce their reliance on pain medication. Additionally, physical therapy is a viable and important option but is often times too difficult for the patient in the early stages of treatment.
The Flexion Distraction Technique
This non-thrust (meaning no "cracking or popping" of the back) technique is performed using a specially designed table that allows the lumbar vertebra segments to flex and distract (hence the name of the treatment). This type of movement allows for the process of imbibition to occur. Some of these tables are automated and some are manually operated. Errico Chiropractic and Wellness uses manual tables because it allows us to accommodate the patient's needs in real time. Here is what the treatment would look like:
Controlled Flexion: During a flexion distraction treatment, the patient lies face down on a specialized chiropractic table. The chiropractor employs gentle flexion and traction motions, creating a controlled stretching of the spine.
Targeted Decompression: The specific movements of the table aim to create a negative pressure within the spinal discs. This negative pressure helps retract bulging or herniated discs, thereby reducing nerve compression and alleviating pain.
Pain Reduction: Patients often experience immediate relief as pressure on the affected nerves is reduced. Over time, this technique can encourage the healing of damaged discs and tissues.
Benefits of the Flexion Distraction Technique
Non-Invasive: The flexion distraction technique is entirely non-invasive, meaning no surgery or injections are required. It's a safe and gentle approach for patients seeking conservative care.
Minimal Side Effects: Unlike surgery, which can have various potential complications and a lengthy recovery process, the flexion distraction technique has minimal side effects, typically limited to temporary soreness or stiffness.
Reduced Pain and Improved Mobility: By reducing pressure on the spinal nerves and encouraging disc healing, this technique can significantly reduce pain and enhance the patient's range of motion.
Avoiding Surgery: For many patients, this technique provides an alternative to surgery, helping them avoid the risks and recovery time associated with invasive procedures.
Holistic Approach: Chiropractic care, including the flexion distraction technique, addresses the root cause of discogenic/sciatic pain, focusing on overall spinal health and well-being.
Follow up care
Once the pain has centralized, meaning the nerve pain has subsided, it is critical to incorporate stability and strengthening exercises to help ensure the pain does not return. At Errico Chiropractic and Wellness, we do not believe in a one-size-fits-all rehab protocol and therefore, write them specific for each of your needs.
Discogenic pain can occur at any level of the spine. Often times numbness in the wrist, hand or fingers can be caused by pathologies found in the intervertebral disc. These are even occasionally misdiagnosed as carpel tunnel syndrome. To find out if your nerve pain is discogenic, consult with your physician to determine the best possible treatment.
The conservative treatment of discogenic/sciatic pain using the flexion distraction technique offers an effective and non-invasive alternative to surgery and medication. As more patients seek non-surgical solutions to their spinal issues, chiropractic care, including this technique, continues to gain recognition for its ability to provide relief, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with discogenic or sciatic pain, consider consulting with a chiropractor who specializes in the flexion distraction technique to explore this promising conservative approach to relief and healing. Thank you for reading "Effective, non-surgical treatment for sciatica: Flexion Distraction Technique." If you have any questions please call our office here.
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