FLEXION - DISTRACTION

The flexion-distraction technique, a form of spinal traction, was developed by a chiropractor, Dr. James Cox, in the 1970s. It is a revolutionary way to treat intervertebral disc herniations, lower back pain and spinal stenosis. The patient lies on this special distraction/manipulation table that applies long Y-axis distraction to the lumbar spine. The joints are then placed into all physiological ranges of motion in a passive mode.

Three federally-funded research studies between National University of Health Sciences and Loyola University’s Stritch School of Medicine have shown that this specific technique can accomplish the following:

• Increases disc space height by 2mm.

• Decompresses the disk bulge by applying negative pressure inside the nucleus pulposus, the deepest part of the disc, thus reducing the actual bulge.

• Increases the area of the intervertebral foramen through which the nerve passes by up to 28 percent.

• Helps to restore normal joint function and thereby reduces pain and stiffness in the lower back.

The protocol requires treatments anywhere from two-three times per week for a period of at least three-four weeks, depending on the level of pain and other factors, such as the length of time the patient has been in pain.

Some of the conditions that can be helped by this technique are:

• disc herniation/ slipped disc/ ruptured disc

• facet syndrome

• spinal stenosis

Also included in this protocol are self care spine saving strategies, core exercises, and changing the way the patient moves.

Reference: Dubourg G, et al. A pilot study on the recovery from paresis after lumbar disc herniation. Spine, 2002. 27(13):1426-31.