Cervical Disk Herniations: Common Questions

Posted on May 11, 2013 by admin
drx9000c san francisco

DRX9000c Cervical Decompression

We have been providing natural solutions for cervical disk herniations in San Francisco for over 20 years now in the SF Financial District. We are located in the landmark Embarcadero Center One.

Last month, we discussed the topic of neck pain arising from cervical disk herniations. The focus of this month’s Health Update is common questions that arise from patients suffering from cervical disk derangement.

1. “What can I do to help myself for my herniated disk in my neck?” The mnemonic device “PRICE” stands for Protect, Rest, Ice Compress, and Elevate is a good tool to use in the acute stage of many musculoskeletal conditions.

  • Protect your health by NOT placing yourself in an environment that is likely to harm you, such as playing sports or doing heavy yard work. That is, think about what you do BEFORE you do it and if sharp, radiating pain occurs, STOP and assess the importance of what you are doing. Use the concept, “…don’t pick at your cut.” This means if you want the injury to heal, don’t keep irritating it!
  • Rest is similar. Limit your activities to those that can be done without increasing symptoms, especially radiating pain.
  • Ice – The use of ice reduces swelling/inflammation, which reduces pain and promotes healing. Alternate it every 15-20 minutes (on/off/on/off/on) several times a day. You can also use contrast therapy (Ice/heat/ice/heat/ice) at 10/5/10/5/10 minute intervals to “pump” out the swelling.
  • Compress – The use of a collar worn backwards, if it’s more comfortable that way, can literally “take the load off.” the neck and disks. There are even inflatable collars which are pumped up with air to traction the neck. Other forms of traction will be discussed further.
  • Elevate – The concept of raising the ankle to the height of the heart so swelling can drain out of the ankle is the classic example of “elevation.” In the neck, the traction concept may apply once again.

 

2. “I don’t want to have surgery if I can help it. What can you do as a chiropractor to help me?” This is one of our primary goals, and in fact, the goal of ALL health care providers, even surgeons! Chiropractic offers anti-inflammatory measures: ice, herbal anti-inflammatory agents (ginger, turmeric, bioflavonoid, curcumin, bromelain, Rosemary extract, Boswellia Extract, and more), digestive enzymes taken between meals, muscle relaxant nutrients (valerian root, vitamin D, a B complex, chamomile, magnesium, and others) as well as other non-pharmaceutical options. Treatments consist of manual manipulation, mobilization, traction (for home and office), modalities such as deep tissue laser therapy and low-level laser, electrical stimulation, magnetic field, ultrasound, and others. We also offer nonsurgical cervical decompression with the DRX9000c. Most important is having a “coach” guide you through the stages of healing by first addressing the acute inflammatory stage (first 72 hrs), the proliferative or reparative phase (up to 6-8 weeks), followed by the remodeling phase (8 weeks to 1 or 2 years) and finally, the contraction phase (lifetime – includes the natural shortening of scar tissue). If manual traction reduces neck and arm pain, the use of home traction is very effective. Options include sitting over-the-door traction, laying down versions, and mobile traction collars (discussed previously). Exercises to stretch and strengthen the neck are also very important in reducing neck pain as well as preventing recurrences. If in spite of all the best efforts of this non-surgical care approach should ongoing neurological loss and relentless symptoms continue, we will coordinate care with physiatrists for possible injection therapy and pharmaceuticals, with neurology for further testing (such as EMG/NCV – a nerve test), and/or neuro- or orthopedic surgery – THE LAST RESORT!

            We realize that you have a choice in where you choose your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for neck pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

To schedule a consultation for cervical disk herniation treatment in San Francisco please call 415-392-2225. Mention this blog post for a complimentary consultation.

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc, Neck Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Low Back Pain Travel Tips: Part 3

Posted on May 5, 2013 by admin
back pain treatment in san francisco

Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) and the discussion of traveling tips will be concluded this month. Please refer to the last 2 months for other great traveling tips. Keep a copy of these in your travel bag!

BE PROACTIVE WITH THE AIRLINES: 1. Get an aisle seat. Request an aisle seat out of “medical necessity.” By stating it this way, the airlines will go out of their way to find you an aisle seat. It is easier to exit the seat in case you have to use the restroom or an emergency occurs. It also allows you to get up and walk around for exercise, which can reduce the irritation of LBP and reduce the chances of blood clots. We can provide a letter to travel with stating that you have LBP, which can help you get special considerations. 2. Request a wheelchair. Make sure the airline knows you would like a wheelchair. They will handle your carry-on, get you through security quicker, and get you to and from the gate in a safe, timely manner. Typically this request is done at the time you make your reservation, but you can also tell a flight attendant prior to landing and they will have it arranged by the time you de-plane at your arrival site. Since there is no way to know how long the security line will be or how long the distance will be between gates or to baggage claim, having a wheel chair pre-arranged is wise. 3. Request a row of seats. Typically, if the plane isn’t full, you can ask for a row of seats that are empty so you can put the arm rests up and spread out, lay down and be much more comfortable. 4. Recline your seat. Depending on your type of low back condition, you may feel most comfortable either in a vertical upright position or reclined position. Some seats, such as in the exit row or last row, do not recline so ask when booking your flight or when you check-in to make sure your seat is adjustable. 5. Stay stretched. Prolonged sitting has many negative effects on muscles, joints, and circulation. Performing stretches from sitting or standing can help a lot, especially on long flights. Ask us to show you some easy-to-perform exercises that can be done in confined spaces! 6. Pre-board. This option allows you to board the plane first and gives you extra time. 7. Handicapped parking sticker. Consider this if walking is challenging for you. We can assist you in this effort and it will allow you to park close to the entrance at the airport. 8. Get a seat assignment. Getting “bumped” is common practice these days due to airlines purposely over-booking. If you do not initially obtain a seat assignment, call the airlines immediately to obtain a seat. Getting bumped can mean a delay for a couple hours up to a couple days!

SIT WITH SUPPORT: 1. Back Support. Using a special back support (if possible) or even a rolled up towel, pillow, or airline blanket between your back and seat can really help decrease low back pain. A small water bottle (tighten the cap!) is also a good option. The “bottom line” is comfort. If it feels good and relieving, it will be of benefit and help you. 2. Sit “supported.” Sitting with your knees bent at a right angle (90°) pushing your feet into the floor can be relieving and offer good support, especially during take-offs and landings. Also, stretch your legs out straight periodically under the seat ahead of you. You may have to place your briefcase or carry-on behind your legs, in front of your seat to open up the space so you can stretch out. Lastly, drink plenty of water, slip your shoes off at times, get up and walk periodically, carry a note from us for special needs, and most importantly, ENJOY YOUR FLIGHT!!!

            We realize you have a choice in who you choose to provide your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for low back pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

To schedule an appointment for back pain treatment in San Francisco Call 415-392-2225

Posted in Low Back Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Spinal Decompression Soreness in the Beginning

Posted on April 28, 2013 by admin
decompression therapy san francisco

Lumbar decompression with the DRX9000

It is not unusual for lumbar and cervical spinal decompression patients to get even more sore than they already are temporarily. It’s like that splinter in your finger that is really bugging you. The longer it’s there the deeper it gets into your finger and the harder it becomes to remove. Then, when you finally decide to dig it out it becomes even more sore…temporarily, before it starts feeling better.

There are all kinds of examples and analogies we can use to describe why some people get sore when they start a DRX9000 spinal decompression program. Heck…the treatment IS physical. Just like when you start a new exercise program…good chance you will get sore. Now the more out of shape you are the more potential for soreness.

Depending on where the starting point is with your back or neck pain when we start decompression you may be more prone to soreness in the  beginning.

However…we know this and we try to minimize it by starting off very light and slowly increasing the pounds of force of the pull. We have you wear a back support all day, ice frequently, drink lots of water, take fish oil, eat lots of plant foods, and get plenty of rest. All these things help to reduce inflammation which is the primary source of pain.

As time goes on and you progress through the treatment the pain levels will subside. And usually the pain is not unbearable, it’s just uncomfortable. But like the old saying goes… “No Pain, No Gain”.

Believe me…it’s a small price to pay to reach our treatment objectives like most of our decompression patients do. It’s a process that thankfully usually has a happy ending :-)

To schedule an appointment at our San Francisco Spinal Decompression Clinic please call 415-392-2225. Ask for a complimentary consultation.

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Leg Numbness with No Back Pain?

Posted on April 21, 2013 by admin

Have you been experiencing leg numbness or tingling in the leg or legs but you have no back pain? Well, you are not alone as this is a very common finding and symptom of a herniated disc in the low back. This is actually a form of Sciatica.

That’s right…it’s possible to have pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg but have no back pain. The reason for this is that the nerves that exit from the lumbar spine travel down the leg to the foot and carry nerve impulses and chemicals that are responsible for motor (movement) and sensory (what you feel) functions. Any kind of pressure on these nerves from a herniated or bulging lumbar disc and you can feel numbness, pins and needles, hot and cold, or burning sensations.

If the leg numbness in your leg/s persists you should visit a chiropractor or orthopedic doctor to be evaluated for possible lumbar disc pathology.

If you are diagnosed with a herniated disc you should not rush to have back surgery even though it may be recommended as a primary option. The reason for this is that we now know ruptured spinal discs can heal on their own with a little help from a chiropractor or a nonsurgical spinal decompression machine like the DRX9000.

Sure, there are rare situations where surgery is the only option but they are far and few in between. Most of the time it makes sense to try non invasive treatments for herniated disc repair first. And in my experience favorable outcomes are achieved more often than not.

So…if you are experiencing numbness or tingling in the legs (sciatica) and you want to find out if you have a herniated disc make an appointment to see a chiropractor ASAP.

If you live or work or plan on visiting San Francisco in the near future you can come see us.

To schedule an appointment with one of our Spinal Decompression Doctors in San Francisco call 415-392-2225. Mention this blog post for a complimentary consultation. We validate parking at the Embarcadero Center where we are located.

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc, Sciatica | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Is my Spinal Decompression Therapy Working?

Posted on April 14, 2013 by admin
decompression therapy san francisco

Lumbar decompression with the DRX9000

We have been providing cervical and lumbar disc decompression therapy in downtown San Francisco for over 8 years now. During this time we have helped thousands of patients with herniated and bulging discs return to more normal lives.

When we first consult with a spinal decompression patient we try to manage the expectations based on the nature and severity of their condition, their age, and our experience with similar cases.

The most important factor is the condition itself. Is there more than one disc herniation? Is there extensive spinal and disc degeneration? Are there any congenital factors like scoliosis or a short leg? Are there other spinal problems or previous micro-surgeries?

In general, the younger the patient is, and the better the overall condition of their health, the higher the odds of a favorable outcome during the typical recommended treatment plan, which is 20-24 sessions.

What happens along the way varies from patient to patient. Sometimes herniated disc patients feel worse at first because the body resists the decompression. The decompression machine (we use the DRX9000) senses this and makes adjustments to the force of the pull but still patients can and do get sore. This is why it is so important to ice frequently, drink lots of water, take fish oil supplements, and eat mostly vegetables and plant foods if possible during treatment, because all of these are “anti-inflammatory” and help reduce pain levels and promote healing.

We always start off slow and increase the intensity as the patient progresses. We look for what we call “signs of life”. Signs of Life can be standing for longer periods with less pain. Sleeping better. Less numbness or tingling. Feeling stronger. Being a little more mobile, etc. Rarely will someone just start feeling 100% better from the start…but it does happen. And when it does we still recommend following through with the treatment protocol.

More likely, treatment  progress is a slow steady progression with occasional setbacks. After-all, the back and neck conditions we are working on took a long time to develop and we are treating them naturally without drugs or surgery…so you feel the changes taking place. And the treatment is physical. The problem itself is physical and so is the solution…so expect to be kind of sore along the way.

Some patients feel better right away and some patients don’t start to feel better until the end…and everything in between. Our advice is to just “stay the course”. Let the treatment process unfold. At our clinic we only accept cases that have an exceptional chance of a favorable outcome. If you are ever concerned along the way that the treatment may not be working than let us know. We can put you in touch with some of our DRX9000 Alumni that went through the same thing.

On your end…make sure you do your home care, wear your back support, ice as much as you can, eat right, and do your exercises once we prescribe them for you. And of course, make all your appointment’s. If you do you increase the odds of success.

If you have any questions or concerns we are always here to help.

To find out if you are a candidate for care at our San Francisco Spinal Decompression Center please call 415-392-2225 and ask for a complimentary consultation.

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Neck Pain and Cervical Disk Herniation

Posted on April 7, 2013 by admin

 

drx9000c san francisco

DRX9000c Cervical Decompression

We have been providing nonsurgical treatment for herniated disks (also spelled herniated disc with a c) for over 21 years. We currently incorporate cervical spinal decompression with the DRX9000c into our treatment protocols and have had great success with the most difficult of cases. 

Neck pain can arise from many sources. There are ligaments that hold bones to other bones that are non-elastic and very strong. When injured, the term, “sprain” is applied. The muscle and/or its attachment (the tendon) can tear as well, which is called a “strain.” But, what is it that people refer to when they say, “…I slipped a disk in my neck!”?

           

The disks lay between the vertebrae in the front of the spine, and they are part of the primary support and shock absorbing system of our neck and back. There are 6 disks in the neck, 12 in the mid-back and 5 in the low back for a total of 23. The disks in the low back are big, like the vertebral bodies they lie between, and get progressively smaller as they go up the spine towards the head. When we bend our neck forwards, the disk compresses, and opens wider when we look up. It forms a wedge shape when we side bend left or right, and it twists when we rotate or turn the head.

           

The terms, “…a slipped disk, a herniated disk, a ruptured disk, a bulging disk” (and more), all mean something similar, if not exactly the same thing. A central part of the disk is liquid-like and can herniate in any direction. When it does, it can create pain IF it pinches something, or it may be painless if it doesn’t. In fact, since the invention of the CAT scan and MRI, many (“normal”) people have been found  on the scan to have some type of disk “derangement” (alteration of the normal integrity of the disk), with 50%+ showing bulging disk(s) and 21% showing frank herniations WITH NO PAIN AT ALL! So, in the absence of shooting pain down an arm from the neck, or when there is no numbness or weakness in the arm, why order an MRI? It may show bulges or herniations that are not “clinically” important, and may falsely lead a doctor to recommend surgery when it’s not needed.

           

There are “KEY” findings in the history and examination that leads us to the diagnosis of a cervical disk injury. From the history, the disk patient often has arm pain, numbness, and/or muscle weakness that follows a specific pathway, such as numbness to the thumb/index finger (C6 nerve), middle of the hand & 3rd finger (C7) or to the pinky & ring finger (C8). Certain positions, such as looking up, usually irritate the neck and arm, and bending the head forward relieves it. Another unique history and exam finding is if the patient finds relief by putting the arm up and over their head. Similarly, letting the arm hang down is often associated with irritation. Other examination findings unique to a cervical disk injury include reproducing the arm pain by placing the head in certain positions such as bending the head back and to the side simultaneously. Another is compressing the head into the shoulders. When lifting up on the head (traction), relief of arm pain is common. The neurological exam will usually show a reduction of sensation when we gently poke them with a sharp object, and/or they may have weakness when compared to the opposite side.

Often times, patients will present to our San Francisco Back and Neck Pain Center with carpal tunnel like symptoms without neck pain. They end up with a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) when the true cause is a herniated disk in the neck Or, they may have both CTS and a herniated disk in the neck. This is called “Double Crush Syndrome” and is a common diagnosis at our clinic.

           

Chiropractic treatments can be very successful in resolving cervical disk herniation signs and symptoms, and should CERTAINLY be tried before agreeing to a surgical correction. Often, the surgeon will recommend a fusion of 2 or more neck vertebrae, sometimes with a metal plate in the front of the spine. This increases the load on either side of the fusion and can create problems above and below the fusion leading to more surgery down the road.  Trust me, try chiropractic first or cervical decompression with the DRX9000c first. You’ll be glad you did!

           

We realize that you have a choice in where you choose your health-care services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for neck pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

To schedule a complimentary consultation for cervical herniated disk treatment in San Francisco please call 415-392-2225.

 

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc, Neck Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Low Back Pain Travel Tips: Part 2

Posted on March 31, 2013 by admin

treatment for low back pain in SF

low back pain travel tips

Medication Foresight:

Get a prescription: If you know your prescription will run out prior to your return from traveling, either get it re-filled before you leave or get a prescription from your primary care doctor to bring with you. If traveling to a foreign country, many medications have different names so make sure it’s the same medicine when you’re filling the script away from home.

  1. Keep your medication with you. Do NOT place it in your checked bags in case your luggage is lost. It can take days (or longer) before your bags finally reach you.
  2. Bring an OTC backup. If there is a similar over-the-counter (OTC) medication, bring that with you. (Check with your prescribing physician, of course.) Ask us about anti-inflammatory &/or muscle relaxing herbs &/or vitamins. Keep a list of vitamins, herbs, and medications with you at all times.
  3. Keep your medication in their original containers. This could eliminate the need to explain to security what each pill is for, and may help avoid them from being confiscated.

Pain Relief Tactics:

  1. ICE IS NICE! But, traveling with ice is tricky, as it warms up and melts over time. We recommend traveling with several sized Ziploc bags that a flight attendant can fill with ice for you. Pinch it between the seat and your lower back and rotate it on and off in 15-20 minute intervals. Repeat the process for the length of time the ice lasts (which is usually several applications). Chemical ice packs also work well. Make sure if you bring an ice pack or gel pack with you that it will be allowed through security. The flight attendant should allow it to be placed into the refrigerator between uses.
  2. HEAT IS NEAT! The use of heat for chronic low back pain can be very effective, but use ice if the LBP is acute or a new problem. If in doubt, try both ice and heat before leaving so you can determine which one works better for you. You can also alternate between ice and heat, but start and end with ice if the LBP is acute. If LBP is chronic, start and end with heat. We often suggest 10 min./5 min./10 min./5 min./10 min. cycles (total of 40 minutes), starting/ending with either ice (if acute LBP) or heat (if LBP is chronic). There are disposable heat packs available, but remember, limit each dose to no more than 20 minutes to avoid pooling of blood in the LBP area. Commercial heat wraps (such as ThermaCare) can also be used. Make sure security will allow the passage of any heat gel pack.
  3. OTC Pain Patch or gels. There are both prescription and non-Rx pain patches available (such as Bengay Pain Patch). Similarly, heat or coolant rubs or gels can also provide pain relief and reduce the needs for medication.
  4. TENS unit. These produce a pain reducing electrical current where a small unit is placed in your pocket or on your belt that connects wire electrodes to sticky pads placed in the area of pain. These can work well for some people, so try it before you leave to see if you like the result. We can obtain these and train you, as well as provide you with a letter to take with you while traveling to show to security.

            We realize you have a choice in who you choose to provide your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for low back pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

To schedule an appointment for low back pain treatment in San Francisco call 415-392-2225

 

Posted in Low Back Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Research Shows Headaches and Back Pain Connected

Posted on March 24, 2013 by admin

Headache and Back Pain Treatment San Francisco

A German study published in the Dec. 28, 2012 issue of Pain has found an association between both chronic migraine and chronic tension-type headaches with back pain.

According to the study, the odds of having frequent low back pain were between 13.7 and 18.3 times higher in all chronic headache types when compared to those with no headaches.  In other words, the odds of having low back pain are much higher if you have chronic migraine or chronic tension-type headaches.

Researchers mention nerve pathways as a possible explanation.  But, one must not overlook the possibility of an unbalanced and malfunctioning spine as a possible cause of the headaches.  If this is true, it would explain why so many chiropractors report success treating headaches (and back pain).

  And don’t forget, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your health, talk to us. Contact us with your questions. We’re here to help and don’t enjoy anything more than participating in providing you natural pain relief.

Altadonna Comunications ©

To schedule an appointment for back pain and headaches treatment in San Francisco call 415-392-2225.

Posted in Chiropractic, Low Back Pain | Leave a comment

Sciatica Treatment: What’s Best Laser or Spinal Decompression?

Posted on March 17, 2013 by admin

We have been providing treatment for sciatica in San Francisco for over 20 years now.

About 9 years ago we began to incorporate nonsurgical spinal decompression with the DRX9000 into our treatment protocols. Then, a few years later we purchased a deep tissue laser therapy system, the LiteCure LCT-1000. The results have been outstanding.

Just to clarify, sciatica, which is pain, numbness, or tingling in the leg due to inflammation of the sciatic nerve (the largest nerve in the body), is a symptom and not a cause. As is most pain. And believe me…when you have sciatica you do not really care if it is a symptom or a cause you just want to get rid of it…NOW!

Sciatica is usually the result of a pinched or irritated nerve (or nerve root) in the lumbar spine (low back) secondary to a herniated or bulging disc or degenerative disc disease (DDD). There are other conditions that can irritate the sciatic nerve like Facet Syndrome and Piriformis Syndrome.  But most of the time it’s a disc bulge or herniation.

Deep tissue laser therapy is often able to help sciatica pain because it can rapidly reduce inflammation by energizing damaged cells with light energy (photobiostimulation). Inflammation of the sciatic nerve is what causes the pain. However, if the underlying cause of the sciatica is a herniated or bulging disc in the low back, and it most likely is, this should be treated or the condition will continue to regress becoming more bothersome over time.

decompression therapy san francisco

Lumbar decompression with the DRX9000

The DRX9000 spinal decompression system is able to help heal herniated discs, bulging discs, facet syndromes, and pinched nerves naturally which is a more permanent solution to sciatica. We may use our laser to help get the pain levels down, but the spinal disc decompression machine is the gold standard for fixing the underlying problem.

In any case, the choice is yours. Spinal decompression is more expensive and is also much more of a time commitment. But the results for the most part are long lasting and it is addressing the underlying cause of the sciatica.

Either way is fine with us.

To find out if you are a candidate for Sciatica Treatment in San Francisco please call 415-392-2225. Ask for a complimentary consultation and we will demonstrate both the laser and DRX9000 to you. If you have an x-ray or MRI report bring it with you. Chances are we can help :-)

Posted in Herniated Disc, Low Back Pain, Sciatica | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Cervical Decompression or Neck Surgery?

Posted on March 10, 2013 by admin
drx9000c san francisco

DRX9000c Cervical Decompression

We have been providing treatment for cervical disc herniations in San Francisco for over 20 years now. About 8 years ago or so we began to incorporate cervical decompression with the DRX9000c into the mix. Since then we believe we have helped prevent many neck surgeries.

How many times have you heard, “I have a pinched nerve in my neck and have to have surgery.” Though there certainly are cases where surgical intervention is required, surgery should ONLY be considered after ALL non-surgical treatment approaches have been tried first (and failed). It is alarming how many cases of cervical radiculopathy (i.e., “pinched nerve”) end up being surgically treated with NO trial of non-surgical care. Hence, the focus of this month’s article will look at research (“MEDICAL EVIDENCE”) that clearly states neck surgery DOES NOT improve the long term outcomes of patients with chronic neck pain.

Chronic neck pain (CNP) is, by definition, neck pain that has been present for a minimum of three months. This category of neck pain is very well represented, as many neck pain sufferers have had neck pain, “…for years” or, at least longer than three months. Depending on the intensity of pain and it’s effect on daily function, many patients with CNP often ask their primary care provider, “…is there anything surgically that can be done?” The desire for a “quick fix” is often the focus of those suffering with neck pain. Unfortunately, according to recent studies, there may not be a “quick fix” or, at least surgery is NOT the answer. The December 2012 issue of The European Spine Journal reports that spine surgery did NOT improve outcomes for patients with CNP. Moreover, they pointed to other studies that showed some VERY STRONG REASONS NOT to have spine surgery unless everything else has failed. One of the reasons was a higher hospital readmission rate after spine surgery. Another reported that most studies on surgical vs. conservative [non-surgical] care showed a high risk of bias, suggesting the research on surgical intervention was biased in the research approach used. They further reported, “The benefit of surgery over conservative care is not clearly demonstrated.” It is important to point out that the research analyzed studies that included patients with and without radiculopathy (radiating arm pain from a pinched nerve), and myelopathy (those with pinching of the spinal cord creating pain, numbness, weakness in the legs, and/or bowel / bladder dysfunction).

In February of 2008, the Neck Pain Task Force published overwhelming evidence that research supports the use of cervical spinal manipulation in the treatment of both acute and chronic neck pain with or without radiculopathy. Bronfort published similar findings in 2010 in a large UK based study that looked at the published evidence supporting different types of treatment for various conditions. They found cervical spine manipulation was effective for neck pain of ANY duration (acute or chronic). Chiropractic utilizes manipulation, manual traction, mobilization, muscle release techniques, home cervical traction, exercise, as well as a multitude of physiotherapy modalities when managing patients with CNP. Given the overwhelming research evidence that surgical intervention for CNP is NOT any better than non-surgical care, the greater amount of negative side-effects, and the obviously long recovery time post-surgically, chiropractic treatment of anyone suffering from CNP should be tried FIRST.

We realize that you have a choice in where you choose your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for neck pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

If you are considering neck surgery than you owe it to yourself to find out more about cervical disc decompression with the DRX9000c.

 To schedule an appointment with one of our Cervical Decompression Doctors in San Francisco please call 415-392-2225

Posted in DRX9000, Herniated Disc, Neck Pain | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment