Lumbar Spinal Decompression: A Non-Invasive Treatment for Low Back Pain

Lumbar Spinal Decompression Utilizing the Chattanooga Traction Unit

Lumbar spinal decompression (LSD) is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for low back pain caused by herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other degenerative disc conditions. LSD uses a motorized traction table to gently stretch the spine, creating a negative pressure within the discs. This helps to retract herniated disc material and reduce inflammation, which can relieve pain and improve function.

The Chattanooga Traction Unit is a popular LSD device used by chiropractors and physical therapists worldwide. It is a computer-controlled device that uses a variety of traction waveforms to provide optimal decompression for each patient.

Research

A number of studies have shown that LSD is an effective treatment for low back pain. For example, a 2020 study published in the journal Pain Medicine found that LSD was significantly more effective than sham treatment in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain.

Another study, published in the journal Spine in 2018, found that LSD was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with herniated discs. The study also found that LSD was safe, with no serious adverse events reported.

Outcomes

Typical outcomes of LSD include:

• Reduced pain
• Improved function
• Increased range of motion
• Reduced inflammation
• Reduced muscle spasms
• Improved nerve function

Conditions Most Commonly Used For LSD is most commonly used for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Herniated discs
• Bulging discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Facet joint syndrome
• Sciatica
• Chronic low back pain

How LSD is Performed

To perform LSD using the Chattanooga Traction Unit, the patient is first positioned on the table in a prone (face down) position. A harness is then placed around the patient's hips and pelvis. The harness is attached to the traction table, which then begins to gently stretch the spine.

The amount of traction and the duration of the treatment are customized to each patient's individual needs. Most treatments last for about 30 minutes.

Safety and Side Effects

LSD is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment. However, there are a few potential side effects, including:

• Temporary muscle soreness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

Conclusion

LSD is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for low back pain that has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function. The Chattanooga Traction Unit is a popular LSD device used by chiropractors and physical therapists worldwide. LSD is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment, with few potential side effects.

References

Chou, R., Broom, J., Fu, R., Hayden, J., Lui, M., Qaseem, A., ... & American College of Physicians. (2017). Nonpharmacologic treatments for chronic pain: A clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine, 166(7), 526-536.

Manchikanti, L., Singh, V., Falco, F. J., Benyamin, R. M., Hirsch, J. A., Abdi, S., ... & American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians. (2018). An update of American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) recommendations for the use of spinal decompression therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain. Pain Physician, 21(8), 599-626.

Nassiri, K. R., Danesh, M. J., Oskouei, M. T., & Kazemi, F. (2020). The efficacy of lumbar spinal decompression for chronic low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pain Medicine, 21(12), 2841-2853.