If you are experiencing degenerative disc disease or a disc injury, it is very important that you find treatment solutions that work. At Family Wellness Center, serving Myrtle Beach, SC, we provide flexion and traction treatment to address disc problems. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Between each vertebra of the spine, there is a soft, gel-like pad called a disc. This disc is designed to keep the bones of the spine from rubbing together. It is also designed to protect the sensitive nerves of the spine. As people age, this disc can start to wear down, crack, or even rupture. This is called degenerative disc disease. It is very important that this problem be diagnosed in a timely way so that treatment can be started. The sooner treatment is started the better chance a person has of slowing the progression.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Not only can the disc of the spine be affected by degenerative disc disease, but the disc of the spine can also be injured. This can happen due to an accident. Herniated discs are often seen following a car wreck. If the disc is damaged, it may start to bulge out of place. This is called a bulging disc. If the disc is so badly damaged that it ruptures, this is called a herniated disc. Both of these conditions can cause a great deal of pain and can grow worse if left untreated.
How Can a Chiropractor Help?
Our chiropractor can perform diagnostics to help determine the nature of your back or neck pain. If it is determined that you have disc issues, a treatment plan can be developed. Your treatment plan may include:
- Spinal Decompression (traction): This is the most commonly used type of treatment for disc issues such as degenerative disc disease or herniated disc. During spinal decompression, the patient will lie on a decompression table. This table is segmented and is motorized. The table can move into various positions so that the spine can be gently stretched. When the spine is stretched this way, it allows blood, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the damaged disc so that it can heal.
- Flexion: Flexion is very similar to traction in that a patient will be placed on a segmented table and different positions will be used to stretch the spine. However, during a flexion treatment, our chiropractor will also be applying manual pressure and manipulation to the spine as well. Both types of treatment are beneficial for treating disc problems.
If you would like to learn more about this service or any of our other med spa services, contact us at Family Wellness Center, our chiropractor in Myrtle Beach, SC, and the surrounding areas. Call us today at (843) 605-1600.