Research Shows That NSSD Can Improve ROM: Back Muscle Endurance and Range of Motion: Benefits of Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy from the Clinical Perspective

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy has emerged as a promising alternative for addressing chronic back pain and revitalising spinal health.

As a chiropractor based in Adelaide, expanding knowledge on this subject is critical to supporting the treatment methods used in your clinic, particularly with tools like the Hills SD table.

Back muscular endurance and range of motion are the primary areas of attention as this article explores the therapeutic advantages of non-surgical spinal decompression treatment.

Understanding Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a technique designed to relieve pressure on the spinal discs and promote an increase in nutrient-rich fluids within the spinal structure.

Typically, therapy sessions involve the use of a motorised traction table, such as the Hills SD table. The goal is to gently stretch the spine, changing its force and position. This results in reduced disc pressure, facilitating an increase in space between vertebrae, and ultimately assisting in pain reduction and functional improvement.

Benefits for Back Muscle Endurance

Back muscle endurance is crucial for maintaining posture and preventing injury during prolonged physical activity.

Below are the key benefits of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy for back muscle endurance:

1. Enhanced Muscle Recovery: By alleviating pressure on spinal discs, this therapy promotes improved blood flow and nutrient exchange, vital for muscle recovery.

2. Increased Muscle Endurance: Reduced disc pressure facilitates the enhancement of muscle endurance, allowing for better performance of prolonged physical activities.

3. Reduced Muscle Fatigue: The therapy helps in decreasing muscle fatigue by easing the strain on spinal nerves and discs.

4. Alleviated Discomfort: By reducing pressure on spinal structures, the therapy mitigates discomfort associated with muscle overuse.

5. Sustainable Movement: Consistent therapy sessions foster a more sustainable range of movement, enhancing functional capacity.

Enhancing Range of Motion

Enhancing range of motion is often a challenge for individuals experiencing stiffness and pain, especially those suffering from spinal disc herniation or protrusion. Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy has been demonstrated to be effective in improving the range of motion by gently relieving tension in the spine.

According to a randomized controlled trial, this therapy, when combined with routine physical therapy, significantly enhances lumbar range of motion, reduces pain, and improves overall function in patients with lumbar radiculopathy (Fareeha Amjad, 2022).

Anecdotal reports and initial studies suggest that patients can experience substantial improvements in flexibility and movement over time, contributing to better overall functional outcomes.

Clinical Findings on Spinal Decompression Therapy

A study conducted at Abdul Latif Jameel Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation provides valuable insights into the efficacy of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy. The research focused on patients experiencing back pain and radicular pain, conditions that are often difficult to manage. The study revealed substantial improvements in patient-reported outcomes, indicating significant relief from both types of pain after undergoing the therapy (El-Zayat et al., 2019).

MRI assessments were utilized to measure changes in disc height, a critical indicator of spinal health. The results showed a notable increase in disc height among the patients, highlighting the positive impact of the therapy on spinal structures.

This aligns with findings from El-Zayat et al. (2019), which also underscore the therapy's role in mitigating pain and enhancing disc health. The combination of patient-reported pain relief and objective MRI findings supports the overall effectiveness of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy in clinical practice.

Concluding Thoughts

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy has emerged as a promising and viable modality for enhancing back muscle endurance and expanding the range of motion. This therapy offers a non-invasive approach to managing chronic back conditions, providing relief and improving functional capacity for many patients.

Utilizing specialized equipment like the Hills SD table, practitioners are able to administer this therapy with precision and consistency, ensuring optimal outcomes for their patients.

The integrative benefits of spinal decompression therapy are increasingly being recognized and supported within clinical environments. Patients often experience significant improvements in mobility and comfort, both key factors in overall quality of life.

Beyond anecdotal success, the therapy's effectiveness is being validated through rigorous studies and objective assessments, such as MRI evaluations that demonstrate increased disc height and improved spinal health.

As a conservative treatment option, non-surgical spinal decompression continues to gain traction not only for its immediate pain-relieving benefits but also for its long-term contributions to enhancing patient mobility and well-being.

References

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8924735/

2. El-Zayat, A. R., Gomah, W. & Aldesouky, A. H. (2019). Spinal decompression therapy as an alternative modality for management of low back pain and radicular pain caused by lumbar disc herniation or protrusion. Egypt Rheumatol Rehabil, 46, 183–188. https://doi.org/10.4103/err.err_34_18

3. https://www.medsciencegroup.us/articles/JNPPR-4-149.php