FUN FACT: The only way the discs in our spine get nutrients in and waste products out is through compression and decompression of the joints! This can be achieved through normal body movement, but when spinal joints become restricted, the movement is lost at that specific joint. This can lead to decreased disc height, changes in disc shape and degeneration (arthritis) if not corrected in the long-term. Flexion-Distraction can help this!

How does Flexion Distraction work?

In our examination of your low back pain complaint, the doctor will find the specific joint or disc that is causing symptoms. Once that the region of complaint is established, the doctor will isolate that joint complex with gentle pressure through the contact hand (the hand that is touching the low back). The table then bends at the region of the hips. The weight of the legs moving downward and upward allows the joint that is being isolated to open and close as the table bends and returns to resting. Through repetition of this bending procedure, the joint is repeatedly opened (stretched) and closed, causing waste products to leave the joint space and new fluid and nutrients to move in. In this process, a disc bulge or herniation can be reduced in size. This happens because the space inside the joint is changing to low pressure which in turn means the transfer of the fluid in the bulge or herniation to move toward the area of lower pressure.

How long does this therapy take?

Flexion distraction typically takes approximately 10 minutes per visit. Relief can occur in the first few visits but typically long-term relief and restoration of the disc may take 6-8 visits.

What conditions respond well to Flexion Distraction Therapy?

Low back pain

Lumbar facet syndrome

Nerve root entrapment

Disc bulges/herniations

Muscular spasm