What is Neuropathy?
Nerve damage, known as neuropathy, refers to any injury or dysfunction of the nerves. Neuropathy may occur within the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) or the peripheral nervous system (nerves external to the brain and spinal cord). Chiropractors assist patients with peripheral nerve issues most of the time. Nerve damage may result from trauma, compression, infection, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, diabetes or toxins.
The symptoms of nerve damage can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, muscle atrophy (loss), loss of proprioception, loss of coordination, and impaired sensation of the skin. Nerve damage can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may require medical intervention to manage symptoms and promote nerve healing. In some cases if nerve damage is left untreated, people may suffer from permanent neural disabilities.
Can chiropractic help?
Chiropractors can potentially help with certain types of nerve damage:
Specifically within the peripheral nervous system. Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment and function of the spine, which can directly affect the nerves. By using manipulative techniques on the joints of the spine , chiropractors aim to reduce nerve pressure and improve nerve function. However, the effectiveness of chiropractic care for nerve damage may vary depending on the specific condition and individual circumstances. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for nerve damage.
How do we like to help patients with nerve damage at Spina Vita?
At Spina Vita we like to use lumbar and cervical traction on patients. Traction is a therapeutic technique that can be used to assist patients with compressed nerves. It involves the application of a pulling force to the affected area, which helps to decompress the nerves and relieve pressure. The type of traction we use in the lower back is known as lumbar flexion distraction.
When a nerve is compressed, traction maybe help by creating space between the vertebrae or joints, reducing the pressure on the nerves. This can help to alleviate pain and improve nerve function.
There are different types of traction that can be used, depending on the specific condition and location of the compressed nerve. For example, cervical traction is used for neck-related nerve compression, while lumbar traction is used for lower back-related nerve compression. Traction can be applied manually by a healthcare professional or through the use of mechanical devices.
Traction can be beneficial in various conditions that cause nerve compression, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica. However, it is important to note that traction may not be suitable for everyone and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional and thus we discourage patients from trying to use self traction if they have not consulted a medical professional. Traction can be beneficial when used in conjunction with other interventions or treatment modalities.
