Flexion Distraction Therapy
Flexion-Distraction is an advanced, traction based therapy commonly used to manage and treat the symptoms of disc injury, and various lower back pain problems.
This type of procedure is proven effective, safe, gentle, non-invasive, and non-surgical in treating sciatica.
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Between different chiropractic techniques, Flexion-Distraction is superior in managing mild herniated discs and sciatica problems. For more severe disc issues spinal decompression therapy is the technique of choice.
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Flexion Distraction is very safe, effective, and conservative approach for disc injuries, low back and leg pain symptoms, and a definite alternative to explore if spinal surgery has been recommended. This is a great alternative for those patients who are a little afraid to get adjusted manually by a chiropractor.
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You do not have to ask for Flexion Distraction when you book in to Perth Chiro Centre. We utilise Flexion Distraction in all our standard chiropractic treatment visits for patients with lower back pain.
Flexion Distraction is Clinically Proven to;
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Reduce pressure inside the spinal disc
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Widen the spinal canal
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Reduce pressure on the spinal nerves
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Return motion to spinal joints
How Does Flexion Distraction Work?
Flexion-Distraction involves the use of a specialized flexion-distraction table that simultaneously distracts (stretches) and flexes the spine in a gentle cyclic motion.
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The chiropractor applies gentle pressure to specific areas which are intended to relieve pain, restore motion and function to the facet joints of the spine.
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The gentle pumping rhythm of Flexion Distraction enables the spinal disc to be placed under negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it. Because of this negative pressure, disc material that has protruded or herniated can be pulled back within the normal confines of the disc allowing healing to occur.
This technique can help move the disc away from the nerve, reducing inflammation of the nerve root, and any associated pain, pins, and needles, numbness or weakness of the leg (that may be related to your herniated disc).
Is Flexion-Distraction Therapy Painful?
No, it is not painful. The therapy is gentle, non-force in nature, it is often used with patients who are recovering from spinal surgery or people who joined a rehabilitation program.
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Generally, the patient will not experience an increase in pain and discomfort during the treatment. In fact, many patients report that they find it pleasant and relaxing. It is a great therapy for elderly patients.
How long does it take to get better?
With 10-12 visits our average patients feel 90-100% better. The effectivity of the treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Our initial goal for each patient is to experience 50% relief in 12 visits (approximately 1.5 months of care).
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Studies show that Flexion-Distraction is an important and powerful tool in treating lower back pain. People with chronic, consistent lower back pain and sciatica may greatly benefit from this type of treatment.
I Have Arthritis, Is It Safe To Have Flexion-Distraction Therapy?
Yes, it is safe. During the therapy, the movements of the machine are repetitive and usually slow, without any quick thrust or undue pressure.
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The gentle nature of Flexion Distraction makes it particularly well suited for patients who need a lighter touch, such as those with osteoporosis or of advanced age.
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In fact, Flexion-Distraction has been successfully used to help manage many conditions of the aging spine including degenerative disc disease, spinal stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis.