Degenerative Disc Disease & Spinal Stenosis
Treatment in Walnut Creek
Unsurprisingly, back pain continues to affect millions of people annually. It’s estimated that 60-80% of people globally will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. Moreover, according to an article published in the Asian Spine Journal, 10% of the world’s population will suffer from low back pain for over three months.
Why So Much Back Pain?
Prolonged sitting is a major culprit of back pain. Our bodies are not designed to sit for long periods, which increases pressure on the spine and joints and desensitizes the stabilizing muscles of the spine. Poor posture while sitting at computers, driving long distances, or hunching over cell phones worsens the problem. The constant flexed position destabilizes the spine muscles, and a busy lifestyle leaves little time for proper stretching or exercise, contributing to the prevalence of lower back pain.
One leading cause of low back pain is degenerative disc disease, which results from continual stress on the spine. Many people who visit our office have either had surgery or are considering it due to severe pain. Our goal is to improve function and decrease pain without relying on medication, injections, or surgeries.
Surgery’s Low Success Rate
Spine surgery is only 50% successful, particularly in the case of spinal fusions. Spinal fusion is a procedure to stabilize the spine, often necessary after traumatic events or fractures. However, the overall failure rate of spinal surgery ranges from 10-46%, and the incidence of failed back surgery syndrome is significant.
From 1998 to 2008, lumbar fusion surgeries in the US increased dramatically from about 78,000 annually to 210,000 annually, yet many patients still experience persistent pain post-surgery.
How Does Decompression Help?
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy helps by gently stretching the spine, which changes the position of the discs. This creates an exchange of nutrients and oxygen and decreases inflammation. The space between the discs opens up, promoting healing and reducing pain.
A Patient Success Story
One of our patients is Jay, who experienced diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), a condition where the ligaments holding the spine calcify, leading to stiffness and severe arthritis. Jay was advised to undergo spinal fusion surgery but was hesitant due to a previous fusion in his neck that resulted in chronic issues. Jay came to us with severe back pain and constant sciatica.
Through spinal decompression therapy, we were able to reduce the stress on his spine and alleviate inflammation, significantly improving his quality of life. Today, Jay walks comfortably and wakes up without pain, enjoying a much more functional and enjoyable life without surgery.
Experience Relief Today
If you’re struggling with back pain, consider spinal decompression therapy at Dudum Chiropractic. It’s a non-invasive treatment that can help you regain your quality of life without the risks of surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
