SpineMED® is designed to target damaged spinal segments and decompress intervertebral discs in order to promote the body’s natural healing abilities.
The Pre- and Post- MRI’s of a SpineMED® patient illustrate the dramatic physiological changes to the damaged disc—both a dramatic reduction in disc herniation and an increase in hydration,as observed through T-2 weighted imaging. These objective changes are not random occurrences in the incidence of disc pathology, and suggest the dramatic reduction of intradiscal pressures and subsequent increase in the osmotic diffusion gradient across the disc endplates.
The SpineMED® protocol consists of 20-25 sessions that are 30 minutes each in duration. SpineMED® sessions are typically administered 3-5 times per week over a 4-6 week period. The procedure is performed with the patient fully clothed and has been described as safe, painless and extremely effective. In fact, it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during the procedure. Each session has a cumulative effect designed to significantly reduce pain and improve function as patients progress through the SpineMED® program.
For lumbar procedures, the upper torso is captured by a comfortable securing system incorporated into the fixed section of the table. The Pelvic Tilt section will be electronically tilted, so that specific spinal segments can be targeted. With precise computer controlled tension, the specific disc segment is gently distracted.
For cervical procedures, the cervical unit is first electronically tilted to the angle required to target specific segments of the cervical spine. The patient is then placed on the table with their head positioned in the cervical cradle unit. The Cervical Restraints (patent pending) are designed to comfortably capture the base of the patient’s skull for controlled distraction.
Post SpineMED Rehabilitation: Following a course of SpineMED® sessions, patients in remission should be cautioned to slowly increase their exercise program. If their low back pain has caused them to restrict their activities in the past, their muscle strength might be decreased. In some cases, muscles are smaller (atrophied) and weak as a result of nerve compression. For at least one-month post session, exercises that cause flexion, extension or rotation of the lumbar spine need to be started in a gradual and cautious manner.
The majority of patients that recover through the SpineMED® procedure generally remain in remission. Some individuals whose lifestyle or work environment exposes them to higher risk factors have found that a maintenance program consisting of occasional sessions is necessary. The clinician will determine this, and the schedule of these sessions will be decided upon at that time. Generally these sessions are performed at one or two week intervals. The purpose of the maintenance sessions is to serve as a measure of protection against disabling exacerbation of low back pain syndrome. Patients in this category develop their own rhythm of maintenance visits that keeps them free from problems.
SpineMED® is designed to help patients with lumbar or cervical disc pathologies and is congruent with other conservative treatment options.
The low force requirements associated with SpineMED® limit the contraindications significantly.
The primary contraindications for SpineMED® decompression are:
Disc fragmentation, calcification, severe arthritis and any surgical spinal appliances are all relative contraindications. Post surgical patients are NOT contraindicated unless they have surgical hardware fixation in the region of the spine being targeted. In fact, failed back patients may respond well to SpineMED®.
Hong’s Acupuncture, Chiropractic & Healing Center is a 3rd generation acupuncture and Oriental medicine clinic since 1942 serving the South Bay community for over 20 years.
For generations, we have been committed to providing our patient's with the best service and experience. Health and happiness is at the heart of what we do, and our focus is to share that with you through education about our treatments and how it can benefit all aspects of life.
Our knowledge and experience in both eastern medicine and modern medicine can help you in more ways then you can imagine. Come and see how we can help you.
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