Herniated Discs Can Affect the Back, Neck and Extremities

Of all the injuries one can sustain in an automobile accident, a herniated disc in the spine is one of the most potentially serious. Left untreated a herniated disc can cause a lifetime of pain and disability. It is important to recognize the signs of a possible herniation after an accident, and to consult with a doctor if any of the symptoms occur. Luckily, there are effective treatments to treat a herniated spinal disc including non-surgical methods that can produce excellent results.

The vertebrae, or bones that make up the spine, are separated by the spinal discs, called intervertebral discs. These discs act as cushions between each of the several vertebrae allowing the spine to bend and move. A herniated or slipped disc happens when all or part of the disc protrudes from its place between the vertebrae. Very often the protruding disc comes in contact with one or more of the many nerves that branch out from the spine. This contact causes pain and other problems in the back and other parts of the body, depending on which disc and nerves are affected. The lower back, also called the lumbar area, is the most common site of herniated discs, but they can also occur in the neck, or cervical portion of the spine. Slipped discs in the thoracic, or middle part of the back, are rare.

Any of these symptoms following an auto accident may indicate the presence of a herniated lumbar disc:Low back painPain radiating to the hips, legs or buttocksPain in the calfs or feet

Spinal Decompression Provides Effective Non-Invasive Treatment

There are many options for car accident treatment in Miami and for herniated discs including pain medication, physical therapy and surgery. A relatively new form of treatment that has provided excellent results is spinal decompression therapy. This treatment seeks to relieve pressure between vertebrae in order to allow the disc to recede to its normal position.

The DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Unit uses spinal decompression to painlessly and effectively repair herniated intervertebral discs. Through a slow and methodical separating of specific vertebrae, the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Unit reduces the pressure being applied to the injured disc while simultaneously encouraging blood flow to the area. This release of pressure allows the disc to regain its proper shape and position over time, while the increased flow of oxygen rich blood helps the disc heal more rapidly.The DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Unit applies computer controlled, gentle pulls to specific vertebrae to provide relief to the affected discs. The thirty to forty minute process is repeated two or three times a week, gradually relieving pain over time. However, some patients begin to experience pain relief after only one or two treatments.