Spinal decompression is one of the most effective ways to treat pain and resolve underlying issues that trigger pain signals. We’ll take an in-depth look at spinal decompression, but if you’d like to schedule treatment in St. Croix and St. Thomas, get in touch with Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. Our team of medical doctors can provide spinal decompression treatment and many other services as well.

Spinal Decompression: How it Works

Over time, the spine can tighten up, which is often the result of issues with the discs between the vertebrae breaking down or becoming worn out. This can put further pressure on the discs themselves and various other tissues in the back as well. For example, the sciatic nerve could come under pressure, producing pain and numbness in the legs. 

With spinal decompression, our medical experts will use advanced computer software, a deep understanding of the spine, and a close physical examination of the patient’s body to devise a treatment plan. Treatment is applied using advanced decompression machinery. Patients will lay on a specialized table and harnesses are used to connect the body to the decompression machinery.

Next, steady force is applied to the spine that will slowly stretch the vertebrae out. How much force is applied depends on the patient, their preferences, and their needs, but generally speaking, the amount of force applied is gentle yet steady. Slowly but surely, the spine is stretched out. This will relieve pressure on the discs in the spine, and can also reduce or resolve pressure on other tissues, including muscles and nerves.

If a patient is suffering from sciatica, which is often thought of as a leg condition, spinal decompression may resolve the issue. We’ll take a look at some of the various issues spinal decompression can treat, but if you have questions, contact Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. We’re always happy to provide further insights. You can also schedule spinal decompression in St. Croix & St. Thomas by contacting us.

Conditions Treated With Spinal Decompression

We already mentioned sciatica, but various other conditions can be treated with spinal decompression, including but not limited to:

Herniated or torn discs- Often the result of overexertion or acute injuries caused by specific events, such as a car accident.
Whiplash- A common car accident injury that typically centers on the vertebrae and muscles in the neck.
Sports injuries- If you suffered a collision or overexerted yourself (among other things) while playing sports, it can cause issues with the spine.
Degenerative disc disease- As you age, the discs in your spine may break down or become worn out.

Treating the above conditions could not only resolve back pain, but also issues like headaches. Dial 340-714-2845 (St. Thomas) or 340-692-5000 (St Croix) to reach Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. You can schedule spinal decompression therapy in St. Croix & St. Thomas.