-What is Chiropractic?
The field of chiropractic began in 1895. The word 'Chiropractic' is derived from Greek terminology and means 'to treat by hand.' Chiropractic care focuses on conservative, non-invasive treatment for joint and soft tissue problems and their associated effects on the neurological system. Neurological 'irritation' caused by such problems can lead to anything from pain and dysfunction to organ problems. Joint and soft tissue problems, if left untreated, can ultimately lead to degenerative changes. The main job of the chiropractor is to identify the cause of the problem, address it properly, and educate the patient so as to reduce the need for continued care.
The field of chiropractic has evolved much over the last 110 years. Chiropractic care incorporates treatments for joint, muscle, tendons, ligaments and nerve dysfunction to help you get better.
-What is Flexion/Distraction?
Flexion/distraction was created with the intent of offering a non-invasive and effective means of treating low back pain. In particular, the technique is aimed at treating disc herniations/bulges, spinal stenosis and low back pain and soft tissue problems. The technique has its roots in chiropractic and osteopathic medicine and it is one of the best forms of conservative care for low back conditions.
Flexion/distraction is administered with a specialized table. The patient is placed face down, and then the table is moved into flexion to create negative pressure in the disc. This is necessary to allow for the disc bulge/herniation to regress so as to help restore proper joint function, reduce inflammation and pain, and allow for better movement patterns. This helps pave the way for rehabilitation and stabilization exercises to help the patient remain pain-free and fully functional.
Other forms of 'axial decompression' have the patient facing up and simply pull the patient straight—this may not be effective for many forms of disc pathology. Unlike other "axial decompression" techniques, the patient is not required to sign up for dozens of treatments upfront and pay exorbitant amounts of money.
