Flexion Distraction Therapy

One of the many techniques offered by chiropractic includes: Flexion Distraction Therapy.  This therapy is a safe, non-surgical and pain free technique aimed at increasing movement of the spine to help resolve disc bulges and herniation's. If you're experiencing extreme pain, this treatment is excellent because it consists of a non-force procedure that takes pressure off the spinal nerves that may be injured or dysfunctional.austin-chiropractor-flexion-distraction

PROVEN CLINICAL BENEFITS:

  • Reduces pressure on the spinal nerves from a disc bulge or herniation
  • Increases spinal motion and fluid within the disc and spinal joints
  • Helps to prevent surgical intervention
  • Reduces symptoms of sciatica

HOW IS FLEXION DISTRACTION PERFORMED?

Flexion Distraction involves using a special table that distracts and flexes the spine in an automated and gentle rythmic motion. Our Austin Chiropractic Doctor will also use some manual techniques with the table to resolve the disc herniation or bulge. The goal is to allow the spine to move correctly in a manner that will remove pressure from the disc bulge. It does this by creating a negative pressure that pulls the disc bulge back into the spine. The flexion distraction motion also maintains healthy discs through imbibition. Imbibition is the exchange of spinal fluid within the discs. The motion allows nutrients into the spinal disc and keeps them well articulated.

CONDITIONS THAT MAY BENEFIT FROM FLEXION DISTRACTION THERAPY

  • Lumbar disc injuries (ruptured, bulging or herniated “slipped disc”)
  • Low back pain
  • Leg pain/Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • General lower back stiffness
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Sprain/strain
  • Scoliosis
  • Sacroiliac syndrome
  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Failed back surgical syndrome

IS FLEXION DISTRACTION THERAPY PAINFUL?

No. This therapy is a gentle, non-force technique that is great for patients recovering from surgery or who have experience a recent injury and find it hard to move. Generally, the patient is not subjected to increased pain and discomfort during the treatment, and in fact many patients report that they find it pleasant and relaxing.

IS IT SAFE TO HAVE THIS THERAPY IF I HAVE ARTHRITIS?

Yes. Movements are repetitive and usually slow, without any quick thrusts or undue pressure. 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 an advanced age. 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.

FLEXION DISTRACTION THERAPY OFTEN HELPS WHEN NOTHING ELSE DOES.

Flexion Distraction Therapy is well researched, and has been proven effective. Chiropractors have been using this method for many years to manage the symptoms of sciatica and disc herniation and have saved many patients from ongoing pain management, discomfort, temporary disability and spinal surgery.