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Posts Tagged ‘spinal decompression’

Get Fast Back Pain Relief With A Teeter Inversion Therapy Table

April 26th, 2010

A Teeter Inversion Therapy Table is the easy solution to a number of health problems that are related to your back.

Many people suffer from back problems including chronic back pain, sciatica and compressed vertebrae.  These people often get into the habit of having a bad posture which compresses the internal organs in the body creating even more health problems.

The real problem for many is that their back is always under stress and it never gets a rest.  They walk around, or sit around all day long with gravity pushing their spine downwards, constantly.This can cause your vertebrae to get compressed and twisted out of shape.

The Teeter Inversion Therapy Table allows you to take all the pressure off your spine by allowing you to hang upside-down in varying degrees.

In the beginning it’s good to start with about 25 degrees of inversion. Gradually, you can increase it to full inversion over several weeks.

People who have gone through inversion table therapy report fewer headaches, back pain relief and neck pain relief.Many have experienced a cure from sciatica or disc problems.

There are many manufacturers of inversion therapy tables in the US but the Teeter Hang Ups EP-950 Inversion Therapy Table is the most adaptable to your body.

This version of the Teeter Inversion Table uses Teeter’s patented Flex Technology design to move as you move. It works with your body, not against it.

The table accommodates a greater range of motion than other tables, promoting realignment of the spine and relaxing your muscles.

You also get optimal surface for sinal decompression with the EP-350, with a smooth, light friction texture. Your body has the ability to slide a little to achieve a premium stretch.

Plus, engineering tests have shown that Teeter inversion tables are the most precisely balanced tables on the market. This allows you to have better control over the lockout mechanism which gives you more confidence when in full inversion.

Whether you have small or large feet you will be able to reach the table’s rachet, ankle-lock system to make adjustments.You’ll like the secure fitting comfort whether you have large or small ankels.

The “EZ stretch” handles which are included in the package help get a better stretch.

You can make your inversion therapy more effective by using the “Ez Angle” tether strap to preset your rotation angles at 20, 40, or 60 degrees. This way you can move your body into a position to fully experience the benefits of inversion.

Normally, inversion tables do not allow your body to flex and rotate properly. If you can’t flex and rotate with ease, the benefits of inversion table therapy may not be achieved.

For more information on the Teeter Hang Ups EP-950 Inversion Therapy Table just click on the link.

If you want to compare other inversion therapy tables follow this link.

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The New Non-Surgical Back Pain Treatment

February 23rd, 2010

We’ve been treating back pain in our San Antonio spine clinic for several years now, and one thing is for certain:  chronic back pain is incredibly common and due to the failure of the typical treatments, a large number of people are living in pain needlessly.

The most commonly utilized treatments for chronic back pain have a poor success rate statisitically, but new treatment methods are now providing relief for even back pain sufferers who have suffered for many years.

One of the most dramatic back pain breakthroughs we’ve seen in our San Antonio, Texas office is  spinal decompression.  Spinal decompression is a technologically advanced form of spinal traction that reduces spinal disc bulging, enhances disc hydration and nutrition, and mobilizes spinal joints and connective tissue.  For properly-selected patients, the results are often nothing short of amazing.

Unfortunately, spinal decompression continues to be underutilized as a back pain treatment for a couple of reasons.  The early marketing for spinal decompression was often hype-filled and factually inaccurate, leading to a certain level of distrust among patients and doctors alike.  Although decompression has statistically proven to be the most successful treatment for most serious types of back pain, the early marketing for it promoted it as a panacea for all back pain sufferers.  Spinal decompression does enjoy an excellent success rate, but it is not effective in every patient and it is simply not appropriate for every back pain sufferer.

Another reason that spinal decompression continues to  be underutilized for treating back pain is due to the usual challenges that all new health care procedures face in the United States.

The problem is that insurance companies refuse coverage for medical procedures that don’t have an established procedure code.  The American Medical Association produces the codes, but won’t add a new code until a decent number of doctors are using the new procedure.  Doctors won’t invest in the equipment and/or training to use the new procedure if it’s not covered by insurance (because they will have a hard time getting paid for it).  This brings us back to the insurance companies not covering the new procedure because there’s no code for it.  Because of this system, it usually takes several years for any new treatment to be widely used, no matter how beneficial it may be. 

Because of the lack of insurance coverage for spinal decompression, many of the back pain patients we consult with at our san antonio spinal decompression clinic will opt to first pursue other treatment modalities that are covered by their insurance.  Sadly, many of these patients go for months or years in pain, spending many thousands of dollars in insurance co-pays and deductibles on the standard back pain treatments without any results to show for it.

Some of these back pain sufferers eventually undergo surgery hoping for a cure for their symptoms.   About half of the patients who do seek a surgical treatment for their back pain find out that the surgery either does not help or makes things worse.

 Although spinal decompression is not effective in every case, it does get good to excellent results for the vast majority of back pain patients. Some patients we’ve consulted with have opted to go the surgery route because they think it will be less expensive due to it being covered by insurance, but most back surgeries wind up being more expensive to the patient than spinal decompression.

Many back pain patients don’t realize in advance that the co-payments for a high-priced medical procedure like back surgery will usually run several thousand dollars.  With no insurance coverage at all, spinal decompression typically costs the patient less out of pocket than an average back surgery (if they are paying an insurance co-payment of 10% or more), and a lot less than a complicated back surgery.

For the majority of people suffering from serious back pain, spinal decompression is statistically the most effective treatment available and in the long-run is usually the most cost-effective treatment available.

Dr. Michael Golab, D.C. and Dr. Ronald Fielden, D.C. are the treating doctors at South Texas Non Surgical Spinal Center.  Visit their website for more about spinal decompression and their San Antonio back pain treatment program.

 

 

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Back Pain – Spinal Stenosis

June 21st, 2009

With age, comes experience, wisdom, and a long list of health complications. No matter how healthy we are, once we hit 60, the ability to ward off every illness in the book becomes less feasible. As our bones weaken and the probability of accidents increase, back problems such as spinal stenosis turn into a reality for many.

Affecting primarily the lumbar and cervical areas of the spine, spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal (which is composed of nerves and the spinal cord itself), begins to compress. While the narrowing itself does not cause extreme pain, the pressed nerve endings inflict discomfort. For those who suffer from lumbar spinal stenosis, they tend to  experience pain and/or numbness in their back and legs. With cervical spinal stenosis cases, the symptoms are generally more severe. This pain can occur in their arms, legs and even cause imbalance.

Spinal stenosis is a medical condition that attacks people who have weak bone structure that is why this illness is common to older patients. As we age, the bones begin to lose its calcium component and the cushion that protects the area. As a result, it becomes more challenging to walk long distances as your agility is impaired. While some are born with it, women who are over 50 tend to be primary targets.If you suffer from painful spinal stenosis, it is advisable that you consider all options available to you. Surgery is considered as a last resort especially with older patients. Nonetheless, there are many beneficial treatments which are non-invasive in nature that could reduce some of the pain.

Spinal decompression therapy is an example of a painless treatment. It requires the patient to lay on a table hooked up to a harness and receive pressure to their spine. This pressure actually creates a vacuum effect, tugging the discs apart, allowing them to gain flexibility and stretch out. By decompressing this section, essential nutrients and blood supply re-enter allowing the spine to heal. The result: pain and muscle spasms are reduced and mobility without the discomfort of the pain. In terms of recovery, those with spinal stenosis may only experience partial recovery which means pain is somehow alleviated, unlike those with herniated discs wherein full recovery is achievable. Even still, this makes a world of a difference. Most patients have to receive 4-5 sessions per week for a minimum of twenty sessions.

In addition to spinal decompression therapy, those with spinal stenosis can also benefit from exercise. Your flexibility determines the treatment available to you — many would advise Pilates, Yoga or a physical therapy-centered treatment. Exercises that pinpoint your back pain are key to the healing process. If you are still struggling, you may also want to ask your physician about medications. Cortisone shots give temporary relief in muscle spasms. Regardless of what you choose, there are many methods to tackle spinal stenosis. If we could reduce just some of the pain in our lives, living into our 100’s would certainly be a walk in the park.

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Spinal Decompression Therapy: Is It The Right Option For You?

June 21st, 2009

As anyone who suffers from repeated episodes of low back pain knows, it can really get you down! When you miss many days of work and you don’t have adequate health care, a back problem not only causes pain but it can become a financial hardship. Despite having good health coverage, chronic low back pain is certain to use up all your covered days in no time. On top of that, there are numerous visits to the doctor, physical therapy sessions and not to mention medications. And, always, the specter of BACK SURGERY is looming.

There may be an answer for you.- a new treatment that you can find out about and give  some consideration. It’s called Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and it has brought relief to many who struggle with the misery of chronic low back pain. If any of these diagnoses or conditions apply to you, this treatment may be the answer. Have you been diagnosed with or do you suffer from:

  • Low back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Herniated Disc
  • Bulging disc
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Failed low back syndrome
  • Numbness and tingling in a leg
  • Pain in your arm
  • Neck pain
  • Spinal stenosis -sometimes this condition can be helped.

The American Spinal Decompression Association believes that this treatment allows patients a 70% chance of resuming a normal lifestyle. These experts have developed a series of questions to determine if this treatment might help you:

  • Do you take medications regularly for back pain?
  • Does your pain limit your mobility?
  • Have you had repeated injections or epidurals with little or no relief?
  • Are you thinking of surgery in the near future?
  • Do you feel comfortable with your decision about surgery?
  • Have all the options that are available been discussed?
  • Have you tried physical therapy or chiropractic treatment?
  • Have you missed work due to your pain?

If you answered ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression could certainly be a viable option for you. Don’t overlook the benefits of this type of treatment. As you gain more knowledge, you will be better able to make a wise decision about your care  – one that makes sense to you.

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An Overview of Herniated Discs

June 21st, 2009

As we grow older, the health risks also increases. From cancer to heart attacks and extreme pain – it seems impossible to go through life without experiencing one of these life changing issues. It is difficult to carry on with your day to day activities when back pains hit you, that’s why a lot of Americans struggle with their daily routine when afflicted by back pains.

Although back pain is a frequent diagnosis, there are a lot diffrent types, symptoms and treatments. A number of back pain cases stem from herniatic disc. As per FamilyDoctor.org, “Herniated discs are most common in the lumbar spine–the part of your backbone between the bottom of your ribs and your hips. Discs are the soft “cushions” between the bones of the spine.” When your disc is pushed against a nerve, it begins to bulge and become very uncomfortable. Otherwise known as a “slipped disc,” the pressed nerve can elicit pain in the back and leg, as well as numbness. Generally, the more you move, the more painful it becomes. Even the slightest movement from coughing and sneezing can trigger a piercing muscle spasm.

Alternative Treatments For Herniated Disc

If you suffer from a herniated disc, there are several treatments that you can undergo. First off, exercise is a big help. While it is imperative to consult your physician before you attempt this, stretching can decrease the level of pain. Yoga or Pilates may be a great alternative, as it improves flexibility and blood circulation. Medicine may also be prescribed, as well as a shot in your backbone.

Ineffective? If so, spinal decompression therapy could help. Widely known as the most favorable and non-invasive treatments, spinal decompression therapy can address herniated discs, Sciatica including pinched nerves. The procedure involves lying on a table with a connected strap hooked to a computer. The computer sends the signal that applies pressure to the spine thereby stretching the discs apart enabling the blood and oxygen to flow back to the spine. This is otherwise known as a “vacuum effect,” since the pressure creates suction.

Spinal decompression therapy is painless contrary to what others perceive. Most patients report improvement on their backs; the level of discomfort is significantly reduced and muscle spasms are minimized. The therapy enables the disc to stretch and become flexible; this marks the start of the healing process. This treatment requires the patient to attend 4-5 sessions per week for a minimum of twenty sessions and a lot cheaper than spinal decompression surgery. By the end of the process, the majority feel as if they have either been cured or significantly helped.

The case of herniated discs is a common problem for millions of people worldwide. The experience can be disappointing because it limits mobility and prevent you from doing your normal routine. The daily stroll in the park becomes a painful experience. With alternative treatments such as yoga or spinal decompression therapy, herniated discs no longer have to be your death sentence. These treatments will alleviate the discomfort, minimize the constant symptoms and bring back your confidence, allowing you to truly focus on what is important. Trust us, pain can be eradicated.

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Back Pain – Herniated Discs FAQ

June 21st, 2009

The demands of the modern lifestyle requires us to be always on our feet. We hardly slow our pace and attend to some minor life obstacles. We shrug off minor illnesses such as the common cold, headaches and even toothache. There are just not enough hours in the day to solve all of these problems. But for those who are experiencing back pains and at the same time, continuously neglecting it, the risks may inevitably worsen . Excruciating pain that derives from a herniated disc can be debilitating. The spasms and aches from the crushed nerves feel as if with one step,  it will all be over. How does one manage the painful experience? Is it treatable and does it enable one to continue a normal routine? The following question and answer discussion endeavors to illuminate some of the basic issues about the subject.

What is herniated disc and what causes it?

A disc becomes herniated when it is pressed against nerve endings. This pressure can produce extreme pain leading to numbness and stinging feeling. Although there are a multitude of different causes, a herniated disc is normally associated with old age. As we begin to get older, the discs in our spine become weak and actually lose some of its cushion. The effect is that the disc may be subjected to tear, forcing the nucleus to push through and end up putting pressure on the nerves. Sport injuries and improper lifting of heavy objects are some of the causes why people experience herniated disc at least once in their lifetime .

What are the associated signs?

People afflicated with herniated discs experience pain in the back and leg portion. The pressure applied on the nerve seem to cause tingling, numbness, shooting pain and sometimes muscle spasms.

Are there preventive measures?

Although the occurrence is inevitable, you can minimize the possibility of sustaining an injury. Be sure to stretch daily, exercise properly and most importantly, avoid smoking. Such unhealthy habit promotes discs degeneration. When lifting heavy objects, be mindful of your posture. You should exert effort from your knees and not your back.

How is a herniated disc treated?

The most effective treatment for a herniated disc is spinal decompression therapy. Surprisingly, this treatment is non-surgical, non-invasive and much cheaper than most procedures. The treatment process highlights the application of pressure to your spine. The procedure entails stretching the discs to allow the blood supply and other important nutrients to circulate into the spine. The disc is then able to gain flexibility and begin to heal, alleviating muscle spasms. Spinal decompression therapy is perfect for a herniated disc because the treatment itself is pain-free. The procedure requires you to lie on a table  and have to be hooked to a strap which is the source of pressure to your spine. While 4-5 sessions are required per week for up to twenty sessions, patients find that spinal decompression therapy gives them a second chance at life. They can actually focus on more important things, rather than being stuck on the couch in debilitating pain. Finally a big sigh of relief because a reliable treatment is available.

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Spinal Decompression For Treating Disc Related Pain

June 21st, 2009

In case you’ve never heard of it, spinal decompression is a relatively new treatment for pain and other symptoms caused by herniated and degenerated spinal discs.  I have been involved in providing spinal decompression in San Antonio, Texas for the past few years, and although it quickly is becoming more accepted, there still exists considerable doubt and controversy about the effects of this type of treatment.  Although many patients and doctors alike have been very pleased with the results of spinal decompression, some still think it is just an elaborate and expensive hoax.  

The truth is, like any treatment for spinal discs, spinal decompression is far from a cure-all.  It is not appropriate for all cases, and although it does offer a much higher chance for a good result than any other form of disc treatment, it does not work for everyone. 

The fact that spinal decompression is not effective in every case, combined with the tremendous advertising hype that is sometimes used by the providers of spinal decompression services can lead to bitter disappointments for some patients.  I believe it is this disappointment that contributes to the tendency for some patients who did not get successful outcomes from decompression to express their negative feelings on internet forums and blogs. 

In fact, spinal decompression is highly effective for most patients who are treated with it for disc bulges and herniations and mild to moderate amounts of disc degeneration.  The overall success rate for spinal decompression is much better than for steroid injections in the spine and for disc surgery, and spinal decompression is quite a bit safer than either of these common forms of disc treatment.

I know that some doctors are still of the opinion that spinal decompression only provides temporary symptom relief and that most patients will need disc surgery eventually anyway.  This is not the case at all.

There is now considerable evidence in the form of pre and post spinal decompression treatment MRI scans that decompression does in fact make positive changes in the discs.  In the majority of cases of disc herniation, the amount of disc bulge is significantly decreased with a series of spinal decompression treatments.  This provides objective evidence of the claim that spinal decompression actually promotes disc healing, not just short-term symptom improvement.

Every patient is somewhat different, but my experiences in my San Antonio spinal decompression office have shown me that the majority of patients get lasting improvement, are able to resume normal activities, and are able to avoid disc surgery.  Most of the patients I have treated with spinal decompression are now enjoying life much more and have been very happy with their results.

For more information visit the spinal decompression San Antonio website and get your free report on spinal disc problems and the treatment options for them.

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What is Spinal Decompression and is right for me?

May 10th, 2009

We’ve all heard of new-age therapies, gimmicks and infomercials that claim a device or treatment will take away all of your back pain. While this may sound like a dream come true, it’s often filled to the brim with lies just to get a peak inside your wallet. If you are suffering from unbearable back and shoulder pain, chances are likely that you’re willing to try anything just to relieve some of the tension. With new techologly like spinal decompression there are treatments that can alleviate some or all of your back pain. Not sure if this is the right treatment for you? Our question and answer guide will provide you with the information you need to evaluate if this is the perfect solution.

What is spinal decompression therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that is aimed to reduce back pain. The non-invasive procedure is anything but uncomfortable. During Spinal Decompression a patients lies on a table with a harness wrapped around them for around twenty minutes. Connected to a computer, the harness actually sends pressure to decompress the spine. When pressure is sent to this area, the discs begin to stretch, bringing oxygen as well as blood supply back to the spine. As a result, this begins the healing process, which improves mobility and in the end, reduces muscle spasms.

For most people who undergo spinal decompression therapy, it is finally a chance to live pain-free. The ability to heal without the use of drugs or surgery is a phenomenal opportunity. Spinal decompression is very safe,comfortable and does require hours of effort on your part. With just a few hours of dedication a week, you too could find the relief you’ve been dreaming of.

Is spinal decompression right for your back pain?
While it is important to consult a physician in order to figure out if this treatment would be beneficial, many people who suffer from herniated discs, sciatica or a pinched nerve find this type of treatment extremely successful.

If spinal decompression seems like it might help you back issues talk with your physical therapist to get more information. Thanks to its continuous success, you will find that clinics and even private practices offer this type of treatment.

What are the costs of the treatment and how long does it last?
Spinal decompression therapy is quick and painless, but it does require a handful of sessions. While most spinal decompression sessions are less than twenty minutes in length, patients are required to attend therapy four to five time a week. In addition, it is recommended that patients undergo 15-25 sessions, as many fully recover from their back pain. Costs vary depending on insurance coverage, but it can range from $100-150 per session. Despite the fact that this sounds like a pricey therapy, it is much cheaper than spinal decompression surgery.  In the end, a second chance at life is certainly priceless.

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A Look at Sciatica

May 6th, 2009

No matter what are age is, back problems can cause more the just a few nights of pain and discomfort. Back pain can not only be debilitating but also life threatening from muscle spasms to sever numbness. With such intense sensations, it is impossible to enjoy daily activities and truly live to the fullest.

If you have suffered from back pain, chances are likely that you’ve heard of sciatica. According to Usspinecare.com, “Sciatica is a term to describe an irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve, which is commonly caused by a herniated or bulging disc (also referred to as a ruptured disc, pinched nerve, or slipped disc) in the lumbar spine.” When pressured is applied to the sciatic nerve, pain tends to travel from the lower back to the buttocks and legs. Given that there is such compression, it is no wonder why patients feel shooting pain and numbness. The discomfort can make walking difficult and painful. The only way to quickly alleviate these symptoms is to rest and avoid any movement.

Sciatica can be very difficult to treat is often caused by accidents, sport injuries , infections or tumors. In the past Doctors recommend jsut bed rest but patients desire a more proactive treatment plan. Medicine such as pain killers can be administered, but they will only mask the symptoms. Therefore, it is imperative to tackle the root of the problem, rather than ignore it. In addition to routine physical therapy, spinal decompression treatments are a great alternative. Recognized as a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure, spinal decompression therapy significantly reduces pain, keeps your money safe and sound, all while improving your spine.

The beauty of such a therapy is that it is pain-free. For some patients, these sessions actually feel good. Spinal decompression therapy requires the patient to lay on a table and be hooked up to a harness that is then connected to a computer. This computer sends pressure to ones spine, which creates a vacuum effect.  By stretching the discs apart, lost blood supply, vital nutrients and Oxygen are brought back to this area.  Due to the fact that your discs can be worn down over time, this is an effective treatment that will ultimately improve flexibility and reduce pain.

The reason why most people prefer spinal decompression therapy is the fact that the time commitment is minimal. The average treatment (which costs anywhere from $75-150) lasts roughly twenty five minutes, allowing you to still work and follow your every day routine. While many undergo 4-5 sessions per week for a total of twenty treatments, this can vary. Spinal decompression can be a life saver for many people with back pain. Back pain can cause you to fell like you would never be able to enjoy another day like you had in the past? Desperate for a second chance? For once, you don’t have to drown your sorrows in medication that only temporarily “solves” the problem. Spinal decompression therapy can easily help your sciatic nerve, relieving the pressure that causes countless debilitating symptoms.

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