1. How spinal traction therapy works
Spinal decompression works on the principle of intradiscal decompression. By applying controlled traction to the spine, specialized devices help widen the space between the vertebrae, thereby:
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Reduces pressure on discs and compressed nerves
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Increase blood circulation in the damaged area
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Helps return fluid and nutrients to the disc
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Promotes the body’s natural recovery process
Treatment usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes per session, with a course of about 10–20 sessions depending on the severity of the injury and the response of each patient.
2. Reasons why the elderly should choose spinal traction
Seniors in the United States are facing increasing rates of conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative spine disease, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. These problems not only cause long-term pain but also directly affect quality of life, mobility, and daily activities.
Compared with traditional methods such as using painkillers, corticosteroid injections or invasive surgery, spinal traction offers many advantages:
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No need to take medicine continuously, avoiding side effects on liver, kidney and stomach
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Non-invasive, no scarring or risk of infection after treatment
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Safe for the elderly with many underlying diseases, not eligible for surgery
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Supports natural rehabilitation, helping to improve mobility without relying on assistive devices
3. Subjects suitable for this method
Spinal traction is suitable for the following cases:
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Herniated cervical or lumbar disc
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Degeneration of discs and articular cartilage with age
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Sciatica due to nerve root compression
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Degenerative Disc Disease
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Mild to moderate spinal stenosis
However, not everyone is suitable for treatment. People with a history of complex spinal surgery, severe osteoporosis, metastatic bone cancer, or a spinal fixation device need to be carefully evaluated before starting.
4. The role of doctors and specialists in treatment effectiveness
The effectiveness of spinal decompression therapy depends largely on the expertise of the practitioner. In the United States, specialists typically come from specialties such as chiropractic, physical therapy, orthopedics, or neurosurgery.
When choosing a place for treatment, patients should look for doctors who have:
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Clear certification from state medical boards
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Experience in treating spinal diseases in the elderly
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State-of-the-art, FDA-cleared traction device
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Personalized treatment regimen for each disease condition
In addition, monitoring the treatment progress and adjusting the traction force appropriately are decisive factors to achieve good results while ensuring safety for the elderly.