Sciatica

Cox Flexion Distraction Technique

If you’ve ever experienced a pinched nerve in your neck or back that causes pain to radiate into an arm or leg, you know how disruptive it can be to your everyday life. Finding the right treatment to relieve that discomfort and restore mobility is critical. One of the most effective chiropractic techniques for treating these problems is Cox Flexion Distraction. This safe, gentle, and non-invasive method helps to decrease pressure on the nerves and discs. In this blog, we’ll explore what Cox Flexion Distraction is, how it works, and how it can help you.

What Is Cox Flexion Distraction?

Cox Flexion Distraction is a specialized chiropractic technique developed by James Cox, DC. This method is designed to treat a wide range of spinal conditions using a unique table that moves in specific ways to decompress the spine. It’s a hands-on, low-force adjustment approach that gently alleviates pressure on the spine and spinal nerves.

How Does It Work?

Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments, which may involve sudden, forceful movements, Cox Flexion Distraction is a slow and controlled technique. Here’s how it works:

It lowers disc pressure to as low as -192mm Hg. This creates a vacuum effect which helps to pull the herniated or bulging disc away from the nerve that is being pinched.
It opens the space between the vertebrae where the nerve exists the spine by up to 28%, which reduces pressure on the spinal nerves.
It restores motion to the spinal joints.

Who Can Benefit from Cox Flexion Distraction?

Cox Flexion Distraction is a versatile technique that can help a variety of spinal issues. Some common conditions it can help include:

Herniated or Bulging Discs: If you’re dealing with a herniated disc, the disc material is likely pressing on nearby nerves, causing pain and discomfort. Cox Flexion Distraction helps reduce this pressure, allowing the disc to retract and the inflammation to decrease.
Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve is being pinched, often due to a herniated or bulging disc or spinal stenosis. The Cox technique can gently decompress the spine, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve and reducing pain that radiates down the leg.
Degenerative Disc Disease: With age or wear and tear, the spinal discs may degenerate, leading to chronic back pain. Cox Flexion Distraction can help treat disc degeneration by creating space and promoting movement in the affected area.
Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves. Cox Flexion Distraction helps create space in the spinal canal, relieving pressure on the nerves and improving symptoms.
Facet Joint Syndrome: When the joints between the vertebrae become inflamed, they can cause significant discomfort. Cox Flexion Distraction gently mobilizes the joints, promoting better function and reducing pain.

Why Choose Cox Flexion Distraction?

One of the main reasons people choose Cox Flexion Distraction is that it’s safe, gentle, and effective. For those who may not tolerate traditional chiropractic adjustments, this low-force technique provides an excellent alternative.

Here are a few key benefits:

Non-surgical: This is a conservative treatment method that can often help patients avoid surgery.
Minimal Discomfort: Many patients find that Cox Flexion Distraction is more comfortable compared to other forms of spinal manipulation. The slow, controlled movements are gentle and relieve pressure without sudden or forceful adjustments.
Proven Results: Cox Flexion Distraction has been extensively studied and shown to provide significant pain relief and improved mobility in patients with various spinal conditions.

Is Cox Flexion Distraction Right for You?

If you’re dealing with back or neck pain, sciatica, or any of the conditions mentioned above, Cox Flexion Distraction may be a great option for you. It’s especially well-suited for people looking for a non-surgical, non-forceful solution to spine pain.

Ask Flynn Chiropractic about whether this technique could be beneficial for your specific condition. With its ability to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote spinal health, Cox Flexion Distraction could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Interested in Learning More?

At Flynn Chiropractic, we specialize in providing Cox Flexion Distraction therapy. If you’re struggling with spinal pain or looking for a gentle and effective treatment option, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation.

Thompson Drop Technique: A Gentle Approach to Chiropractic Care

When it comes to chiropractic adjustments, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” method. Every patient is unique, and so are their needs. That’s why chiropractors use various techniques to ensure optimal care for each individual. One of the most popular and patient-friendly methods is the Thompson Drop Technique. Whether you’re familiar with chiropractic care or new to it, this gentle yet effective technique is worth understanding.

What Is the Thompson Drop Technique?

The Thompson Drop Technique was developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson in the 1950s. It’s a chiropractic method that uses a specially designed table with segmented drop pieces. There are usually drop pieces for the neck, upper/mid back, lower back, and pelvis. The drop pieces are slightly elevated under the area of the spine that is to be adjusted and they drop down during the adjustment.

Here’s how it works: The chiropractor applies a controlled, quick thrust to the area of the spine or joint that needs realignment, and the drop pieces of the table simultaneously drop in response to the force. This action helps with the adjustment by utilizing the natural force of gravity, making the process smoother and more efficient.

How Does the Thompson Drop Technique Differ from Traditional Adjustments?

Traditional chiropractic adjustments often involve manual manipulations where chiropractors use their hands to apply a specific amount of force to move joints or vertebrae. There is usually a cracking sound during the adjustment. Many times the lower back and neck are twisted during the adjustment. While these methods can be effective, they might feel more intense for some patients, especially those with sensitivities, arthritis, chronic pain, or fear of adjustments.

The Thompson Drop Technique, on the other hand, is known for its gentleness. The drop piece amplifies the force of the thrust from the chiropractor, so the chiropractor doesn’t have to apply as much pressure during the adjustment. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who may not tolerate more forceful techniques well.

Who Can Benefit from the Thompson Drop Technique?

One of the major advantages of the Thompson Drop Technique is its versatility. It’s suitable for a wide range of patients, including:

Patients with chronic pain who require a more delicate approach to chiropractic care.
Individuals with spinal misalignments that need to be corrected without using high-force manipulations.
Those with joint conditions or stiffness that make traditional adjustments uncomfortable.
Patients who are nervous about the intensity of manual chiropractic adjustments.
Elderly patients or those with osteoporosis, who may need a gentler method due to bone fragility.

Key Benefits of the Thompson Drop Technique

Gentle yet Effective: The technique is designed to deliver results with minimal force and discomfort. The drop pieces help align the spine and joints without aggressive force, making the experience smoother.
Comfortable for Patients: Many patients report feeling more comfortable and relaxed during the Thompson Drop Technique compared to traditional “cracking adjustments.” With this technique the adjustment is done primarily with you lying face down on the table without any twisting and turning of your neck or lower back. The cracking sound does not occur with this adjustment.
Precise Adjustments: This technique allows for targeted adjustments in specific areas of the spine or joints. The chiropractor can adjust each drop section of the table to match the unique needs of the patient.
Improves Functionality and Mobility: By restoring proper alignment, the Thompson Drop Technique can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance function.
Customizable for Various Conditions: Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck pain, headaches, or sciatica, this technique can be adapted to address many different issues.

What to Expect During a Thompson Drop Technique Adjustment

If it’s your first time experiencing the Thompson Drop Technique, here’s what to expect:

Assessment: Your visit will start with assessing your spine and areas of discomfort. This helps determine which areas need to be adjusted.
Positioning: You’ll lie on a specialized drop table, which is designed to support your body while providing precise drops where needed.
Adjustment: A quick thrust will be given to the restricted joints, and you’ll feel the table segment drop slightly. The drop helps align the vertebrae or joints with minimal force applied directly to your body.

Is the Thompson Drop Technique Right for You?

If you’ve been hesitant to try chiropractic care because of concerns about forceful adjustments, or if you have specific conditions that require a gentler approach, the Thompson Drop Technique could be an excellent choice for you. It’s designed to offer a comfortable, safe, and effective way to address spinal misalignments and improve your function. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of the Thompson Drop Technique or simply want to learn more about how it can help you, contact us today to schedule your appointment!

Structures Involved in Low Back Pain

In cases of low back pain, various structures within the spine and surrounding area can contribute to pain generation. Here’s a list of common pain-generating structures:

Vertebral Joints: The facet joints, located at the back of the spine, can become irritated or inflamed from osteoarthritis or injury, leading to localized pain and stiffness in the lower back.
Disc: Injury or degeneration of discs, can cause symptoms ranging from localized low back pain to radiation down the leg due to nerve compression or inflammation.
Nerve: Irritation or pinching (compression) of spinal nerves, such as the sciatic nerve, can result in burning, sharp, shooting pain or numbness and tingling that radiates from the lower back down into the buttocks and legs. Degenerated or herniated discs and spinal stenosis can cause pinched nerves.
Muscle: Strain or overuse injuries of the muscles in the lower back, can occur due to improper lifting, repetitive motions, or poor posture.
Ligament: Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones, providing stability to the spine. Sprains or tears in the ligaments of the lower back, typically caused by sudden twisting or bending motions, can result in pain and instability.
Tendon: Tendons connect muscles to bones and play a role in movement and stability. Injuries or inflammation of the tendons in the lower back can cause pain with movement and activities.
Fascia: Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, nerves, and organs, providing support and protection. Irritation or dysfunction of the fascia in the lower back can lead to discomfort and pain.

Understanding which structures may be contributing to low back pain is essential for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies. A comprehensive assessment like those performed at Flynn Chiropractic can help to identify the underlying causes and develop an effective plan for pain management and rehabilitation.

Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis is a muscle in the buttocks which rotates the leg outwards. The sciatic nerve usually runs under the piriformis. However as much of ¼ of the population’s sciatic nerves run through the piriformis muscle. These people are more likely to have piriformis syndrome. Tightness or spasms in this muscle can compress the sciatic nerve causing sciatica.

Symptoms of pain, numbness, or tingling can come on suddenly or gradually over time. Causes could include a fall on the buttocks, sitting on the edge of a hard surface, walking long distances, or a new exercise routine. Sometimes the cause is unknown.

Symptoms start in the buttocks and can radiate down the leg and into the foot. Walking, running, climbing stairs, and sitting or standing for longer than 15 minutes may increase symptoms.

Ice, stretching, soft tissue release, and chiropractic can help relieve sciatica caused by piriformis syndrome.

Sciatica is pain down the back of the leg that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. The pain can occur with or without lower back pain and may travel from the buttock, down the back of the thigh and calf, and into the foot.

Symptoms can be mild to severe and may include aching, burning, sharp, shooting, or dull pain, numbness or tingling. With increasing compression, people may have a loss of sensation or muscle strength. You may notice an increase of pain while coughing, sneezing, straining, and sitting. Symptoms can occur suddenly or gradually over time.

Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Common causes include herniated or bulging discs, degenerative discs, stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or spondylolisthesis.

Sciatica can be extremely painful and worrisome, but it is also treatable. Very few cases will require surgery. It can respond well to conservative treatments like chiropractic. In this office, I use a special adjustment, Cox Flexion Distraction, that lowers disc pressure and creates space for the irritated nerves. It has been shown to be more effective than an exercise program for relieving leg pain.¹

An at home exercise that can help is nerve flossing. Irritated nerves are more sensitive to pressure and are wider than normal nerves due to swelling. This sciatic nerve flossing technique can help decrease pain and improve the mobility of the sciatic nerve. Flossing may release adhesions along the path of the nerve.

Do the flossing on the painful side. Do 10 repetitions or about 30 seconds. Start with your chin tucked to your chest and knee flexed. Then look up to the ceiling as you extend your leg. Then return to the starting position. The movements are the same for the side lying position. You may feel a stretch but you should not feel an increase in pain. Stop immediately if this causes an increase in your symptoms. If your sciatic nerve is very irritated, you may have to wait for the irritation to lessen before attempting this move.

Call the office if you need help and you are tired of letting sciatica stop you from doing the things you want to do.

Sean Flynn, DC
Sioux City, IA Chiropractor

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16341712