Flexion-Distraction Technique
Flexion Distraction is a gentle Chiropractic adjusting technique used to repair herniated discs.
Flexion Distraction is a safe alternative to back surgery for those 95% of patients whose conditions don't demand surgical intervention or back surgery.
Flexion-Distraction technique uses a special precision table that makes circular and vertical movements to release disc and spinal pressures. The movement, guided by the hands of a chiropractic physician, creates a suction effect to allow a disc to return to its normal height or a joint to its normal range of motion. Gently drawing apart each joint like an accordion allows the spine to reset, and the pumping action enhances soft tissue nutrition and rehabilitation.
Flexion-Distraction is well-studied, widely accepted and an effective treatment for a variety of spinal conditions. Federally funded research has proved the following about Flexion-Distraction technique:
- It reduces intradiscal pressures
- It increases intradiscal height
- It increases foraminal size
Studies show that more than two-thirds of patients report excellent to good improvement with a typical rehabilitation program of 12 treatments.
While seen as the chiropractic physician's treatment of choice for disc herniation or ruptured discs, the Flexion-Distraction technique can also successfully treat:
- Failed back surgical syndromes
- Sciatica / leg pain
- Stenosis
- Arm and neck pain
- Chemical radiculitis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Synovial Cyst
- Headache
- ...and much more
Flexion Distraction may help relieve pain from disc hernia, failed back surgery syndromes, leg pain, sciatica, neck pain, arm pain, ruptured discs, herniated discs, slipped discs, low back pain, facet syndrome, bulging discs, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, sprain/strain, disc prolapse, etc.
By lying on the table, neutralizing the effects of gravity, we're able to gently separate spinal joints and move them through a more normal range of motion. Patients find this surprisingly pleasant. We find it powerfully effective.
How the Cox Flexion Distraction Works in Chiropractic Therapy
If you're suffering from back, neck or leg pain, your chiropractor may use a number of different techniques to locate the root cause and release tension or pressure in the affected area. The Cox Flexion Distraction Technique, also known as the Cox Technic, is a non-surgical spinal manipulation adjustment technique that helps to stop pain immediately by realigning the spine.
This technique also restores range of motion in the joints and muscles, thereby increasing flexibility and improving your posture. Here's a close look at how the Cox Flexion Distraction treatment works, and how what key benefits you can look forward to when you are undergoing this chiropractic treatment.
How the Cox Flexion Distraction Works
The Cox Technique is designed to be a safe, nearly-painless alternative to back surgery, and is commonly used in patients who are still suffering from back pain after extensive surgery, or are in the rehabilitation phase and want to improve their recovery results. The technique is designed to realign the spine by applying pressure in key areas of the back; the chiropractor effectively decompresses the discs by applying a gentle stretch to the lower spine, and a series of repetitive movements and thrusts to reduce pressure.
The Flexion-Distraction technique is typically performed on a special table that helps to separate the thoracic, cervical and lumbar spinal joints. Only slight pressure is applied to the body throughout the process, and the goal is decrease pressure and decompress the inflamed areas around the spine to restore nerve functioning.
Results are sometimes instantaneous, and researchers report that it takes an average of 29 days for most people to see significant results. Most people need at least 12 visits to obtain optimal results, but results vary significantly by patient and condition.
Key Benefits of the Cox Flexion Distraction Technique
The Cox Flexion Distraction Technique is most appropriate for resolving mid and lower back pain, hip pain, neck and shoulder pain, and reducing the effects of whiplash. Other key benefits of this treatment include:
- Improved range of motion in the feet, toes, shoulders and arms
- Reduction of headaches or migraines
- Improved posture after only a few treatments
- May be covered by some insurance plans
- Brief, painless treatments; may be suitable for people who cannot tolerate pain
- Restores vertebral joints for better functioning
- Increases circulation and improves nerve communications
- Reduces pregnancy back pain
- Affects subluxation of the spine
Overall, the Cox Flexion Distraction Technique is used to decompress the spinal column and adjust poorly functioning vertebrae. It is most effective for reducing the effects of degenerative disc diseases and lumbar, cervical and thoracic disc herniations, and offers several benefits for people who do not want to undergo surgery to get rid of back pain.
To view more information on the Cox Technique®, click here.
