Flexion-Distraction Technique

Flexion Distraction is a chiropractic technique used to treat various conditions of the spine. It is non-invasive and gentle technique targeted to increase movement in spine and decrease disc pressures between vertebral bodies. The treatment is proven to be safe, gentle, non-force procedure and works great at taking pressure off the spinal nerves that may be injured or often compressed.

CLINICAL BENEFITS:

• Reduce pressure on the spinal nerves from a disc bulge or herniation
• Increase spinal movement and facilitate blood flow
• An alternative option to surgery for herniated discs
• Proven method to reduce sciatic symptoms

Flexion Distraction technique is usually performed on a special Chiropractic table that distracts and flexes the spine in an automated and gentle rhythmic motion. The Chiropractic Doctor will 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. The motion allows nutrients into the spinal disc and keeps them well articulated.

• 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

No. Because of its gentle, non-force nature, it is often used with patients who are recovering from spinal surgery or who are in rehabilitation. 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 as they are experiencing decompression off from their spinal joints.

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.