Spinal decompression is a powerful treatment that can correct herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and more. But the steps you take after spinal decompression therapy are almost as important as the treatment itself.
The team at R2 Wellness Centers understands the importance of nurturing and supporting your body after chiropractic care. We’re happy to share some information on why stretching and strengthening your back is such an important part of spinal decompression.
Spinal decompression therapy is a nonsurgical treatment that gently creates proper space and alignment within the joints of your spine. It’s a specialized form of traction that lengthens your spine, creating the space your vertebral joints need to enhance blood flow, relieve pressure on compressed nerves, and allow any bulging or displaced spinal tissue to return to its proper position.
Spinal decompression can do wonders for people living with chronic lower back pain. However, simply having this therapy performed isn’t enough. You also need to work to build strength and enhance flexibility within your spine. This combination approach sets you up for success.
Stretching your muscles helps lengthen them in minute increments. It also enhances flexibility within muscle fibers. Stretching is a great way to keep the muscles in your back engaged and ready for movement. That makes a big difference as you get back into your normal routines after spinal decompression therapy.
Stretching also increases blood flow to the targeted muscles. Blood brings nutrients and oxygen to the tissues within your spine, assisting your body’s innate healing abilities. Performing gentle stretches is also an excellent way to flush out lactic acid, which is a byproduct created by muscle exertion.
A stretching routine can also help improve your posture. Many people with back pain change the way they sit, stand, and move. Stretching can promote proper spine alignment throughout each day, which can go a long way toward reducing your risk of further back problems.
Your spine is a complex network of bones, muscles, connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. The muscles within and near your spine work to enable movement and support your back. Strong muscles give you a degree of protection against damaging your back while lifting heavy objects or engaging in physical activities.
A strong back also removes some of the pressure placed on the other components of your spine. Your muscles can take most of the workload when it comes to bending, lifting, and stretching, all of which can cause pain if your spine is weak or injured.
Strengthening your spine can reduce your risk of future injuries or other spinal conditions. A strong back also improves your overall stability and coordination, which are always important but become even more so as you move into your later years.
It’s true that your body needs time to adjust and heal after spinal decompression. While the process itself doesn’t cause harm, the abnormal tissue and alignment issues that led to the need for spinal decompression will change and heal afterward. But too much downtime can bring its own risks.
Just as your body needs time to rest, it also needs to remain active and engaged to heal and thrive. Striking the right balance between rest, strengthening your spine, and improving flexibility through stretching isn’t always easy. But the team at R2 Wellness Centers is here to help, providing highly customized treatment planning and aftercare guidance to help you make the most of your spinal decompression therapy.
If you’re ready to learn more, reach out to us online or by phone to book a face-to-face appointment.
