A healthy spine is essential for movement. Spinal decompression is a common treatment for those suffering from back pain in order to relieve pressure on the spine. It can be done surgically or non-surgically. Both methods are effective, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll explore those differences and help you decide which method may be right for you.

What is Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is a treatment used to relieve pressure on the spine. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, both surgical and non-surgical. Common causes of pressure on the spine include herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. Symptoms of pressure on the spine include pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs. Spinal decompression can help to relieve these symptoms by creating more space between the vertebrae in the spine. 

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Methods

There are a few different types of non-surgical spinal decompression methods available. The most common type is traction, which involves stretching the spine using a system of pulleys and weights. The goal of this is to take pressure off the discs and nerves. This type of decompression is typically done as an outpatient procedure and takes about 30 minutes to complete. 

The recovery time is usually shorter than with surgical decompression, with most people able to return to their normal activities within a few days. However, there is a risk of discomfort and muscle soreness with any traction-based treatment, so it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding if nonsurgical decompression is right for you. 

Surgical Spinal Decompression Methods

If nonsurgical methods fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended. There are a few different types of surgical spinal decompression procedures available, depending on the cause of the pressure on the spine. 

The most common type of surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing a small part of the vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spine. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure and takes about an hour to complete. The recovery time is usually short, with most people able to return to their normal activities within a week. 

However, there is a risk of infection and nerve damage with any surgery, so it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits with a qualified health professional before deciding if surgical decompression is right for you. 

Spinal decompression is a common treatment for those suffering from back pain caused by pressure on the spine. It can be done surgically or non-surgically. Both methods are effective, but there are some key differences between the two.

In this article, we’ve explored those differences and helped you decide which method is right for you. If you have any further questions about which treatment may be right for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!