Lumbar Decompression Proven Safe And Effective For Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis, NASS Study Reveals
Los Angeles, CA – A recent study presented at the 33rd Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS 2018) has demonstrated that lumbar decompression surgery is both safe and effective for patients with Grade 1 spondylolisthesis, a common cause of spinal stenosis. The study, led by Dr. Reginald Q. Knight, MD, MHA, Director of the Bassett Spine Care Institute in Cooperstown, NY, was based on a retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a single center. A Falls Church, VA, chiropractor can further explain how this news may affect your treatment regimen; at our practice, we’re quite excited about the possibilities for our patients!
Spondylolisthesis, often associated with spinal stenosis, involves the slippage of one vertebra over another and is frequently treated with spinal fusion. However, Dr. Knight’s research suggests that minimally invasive spinal decompression techniques can be a viable alternative, particularly for cases of Grade 1 spondylolisthesis where patients show relative pre-operative stability.
The study analyzed outcomes from 24 patients with Grade 1 spondylolisthesis and compared them to 58 patients without the condition, all of whom underwent lumbar decompression at the L4-L5 level. The data, gathered over a seven-year period, showed significant improvements in pain and disability, measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), for both groups. Patients reported enhanced functional outcomes and decreased pain levels at various intervals, including 1, 4, 10, and 24 months post-operation.
Dr. Knight noted that while the spondylolisthesis patients were older and had slightly different clinical profiles, including lower body mass index and shorter fluoroscopy times, their outcomes were comparable to those of the non-spondylolisthesis group. Only one patient with spondylolisthesis required a subsequent fusion, while re-operations were more common in the non-spondylolisthesis group.
In summary, Dr. Knight concluded that lumbar decompression is an effective and safe option for treating Grade 1 spondylolisthesis, often without the need for fusion. This minimally invasive approach can be performed in an outpatient setting, offering significant relief and improved quality of life for patients.
What Is Lumbar Decompression?
Lumbar decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves in the lower back (lumbar region). This therapy is primarily used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. The goal of lumbar decompression is to alleviate pain and restore function by reducing the compression on the spinal nerves and improving spinal alignment.
The therapy typically involves two main techniques: manual decompression and mechanical decompression. Manual decompression includes physical methods like spinal adjustments performed by chiropractors or physical therapists. Mechanical decompression, often referred to as spinal decompression therapy, uses a specialized table or device that gently stretches the spine, creating a negative pressure within the disc space. This process aims to pull bulging or herniated discs back into place and promote the healing of damaged tissues.
In addition to these techniques, lumbar decompression therapy may be complemented by exercises, stretching, and strengthening routines to support spinal health. This therapy is generally recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy and prefer to avoid invasive surgical options.
Is Lumber Decompression Right For You?
Do you wish to improve your spinal health, or are you seeking relief from lower back pain without medications? Lumber decompression therapy may be an excellent option for you! We’re happy to review your condition and make the right recommendations for your chiropractic care needs. Contact the Falls Church office ofAmeriWell Clinics today for a consultation.