1.

Flexion-distraction treatment opens the space between the vertebrae. This will minimize the pressure on your discs and give your disc bulge a chance to unbulge. In fact, research shows that after a series of treatments, the intervertebral disc space can increase, and a bulging or herniated disc can be repositioned altogether or reduced in size.

2.

A flexion-dstraction session flushes fluids into and out of the disc space.  The disc has a poor blood supply, and it only gets its nourishment indirectly – through passive diffusion. The intermittent cycles of stretch speed up the turnover of nutrients and metabolic by-products.  This allows for disc healing and regeneration.

3.

By stretching the fibers of the intervertebral disc, flexion-distraction stimulates the tissue’s healing process. The effect is analogous to the way you develop strength with weight-training.  Lifting a heavy weight actually breaks down the your muscle fibers.  This serves as a healing stimulus, and the muscle rebuilds stronger than before.  The same effect takes place in the intervertebral disc after a flexion-distraction session.

As a result of these three mechanisms, I’ve been able to help many low back pain patients restore their spine to health.

Dr. Lavine has been an innovator in the use of movement and touch to promote health since 1981. He practices in New York City and Princeton, NJ.

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