Correlation Between Disc Height Restoration and Pain Reduction: Evidence for Spinal Decompression

As a chiropractor in Adelaide, I have witnessed the profound impact that chronic back pain can have on individuals' lives. Finding effective, non-invasive treatments for this condition is critical.

One such treatment that has shown great promise is non-surgical spinal decompression. By utilising advanced equipment like the Hills SD table, we can offer targeted relief for patients suffering from back pain.

This article gets into the science and evidence supporting spinal decompression therapy, specifically examining the correlation between disc height restoration and pain reduction.

Disc Height and Its Significance

Intervertebral discs play a pivotal role in maintaining spinal health, offering both flexibility and shock absorption. Unfortunately, these discs are prone to degeneration due to various factors such as aging, trauma, and repetitive strain. When disc degeneration occurs, it often leads to a reduction in disc height. This decrease is not merely a structural issue; it is frequently accompanied by significant pain and a reduction in mobility, severely impacting daily life activities.

Therefore, effective treatment strategies must focus on restoring disc height to alleviate pain and improve overall function.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression therapy is a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment aimed at relieving pressure on compressed spinal discs.

At our Adelaide clinic, The Adelaide Disc Center, we employ the Hills SD table to deliver this innovative therapy. The table facilitates controlled mechanical traction, gently separating the vertebrae and allowing the intervertebral discs to rehydrate. This separation is believed to create a conducive environment for healing, significantly contributing to disc height restoration and pain reduction. This method offers a non-surgical alternative for patients, making it a safer option than more invasive procedures.

A study demonstrated that non-surgical spinal decompression combined with chiropractic care can effectively reduce the size of a lumbar disc herniation (Dudum & Gatterman, 2024).

By harnessing the potential of spinal decompression, we work towards not just relieving pain but also addressing the underlying causes of discomfort. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients experience long-lasting relief and can return to their everyday activities without the debilitating pain that once hindered them.

Disc Height Restoration and Pain Reduction Through Spinal Decompression: Research Evidence

Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of spinal decompression in reducing pain and enhancing disc height. A pivotal study by Gose, Naguszewski, and Naguszewski (1998) evaluated the outcomes of vertebral axial decompression (VAX-D) therapy for patients with low back pain due to herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or facet syndrome. The study included data from 778 patients across 22 medical centres, who received at least ten sessions of VAX-D therapy.

The results were significant, with a success rate of 71% based on patient-reported pain reduction. Success was defined as a reduction in pain to a level of 0 or 1 on a scale of 0 to 5. Additionally, improvements in mobility and the ability to perform daily activities strongly correlated with pain reduction. These findings highlight the potential of spinal decompression therapy to not only relieve pain but also restore functional capacity (Gose et al., 1998).

Mechanisms of Pain Reduction and Disc Height Restoration

Spinal decompression therapy may reduce pain and restore disc height through several mechanisms. The mechanical traction applied during therapy can:

● Reduce intradiscal pressure: Promoting the reabsorption of herniated disc material.

● Enhance nutrient exchange within the disc: Supporting cellular repair and regeneration.

● Improve the rehydration of the disc: Leading to increased disc height.

● Alleviate pressure on nerve roots: Decreasing neuropathic pain.

● Facilitate the realignment of spinal structures: Helping to correct spinal misalignments, which can contribute to alleviating pain and improving overall spinal health.

Clinical Implications

The correlation between disc height restoration and pain reduction underscores the value of spinal decompression therapy in chiropractic care. By utilising the Hills SD table, clinicians can offer patients a non-surgical option to manage chronic back pain and improve overall spinal health. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not responded to traditional therapies such as physical therapy, medication, or injections.

Conclusion

Evidence supports the efficacy of spinal decompression therapy in achieving disc height restoration and pain reduction. The study by Gose et al. (1998) provides compelling data that underscores the benefits of this non-surgical intervention.

As chiropractors, integrating spinal decompression therapy using the Hills SD table into our practice allows us to offer patients an effective, evidence-based treatment for chronic back pain.

References

1. https://journal.parker.edu/article/123984-reduction-of-the-size-of-a-lumbar-disc-herniation-using-non-surgical-spinal-decompression-combined-with-chiropractic-care

2. Gose, E., Naguszewski, W., & Naguszewski, R. (1998). Vertebral axial decompression therapy for pain associated with herniated or degenerated discs or facet syndrome: An outcome study. Neurological Research, 20(3), 186-190. https://doi.org/10.1080/01616412.1998.11740504