WHAT IS IDD THERAPY: Understanding Back Pain

Back pain most often occurs because of a pinched (impinged) nerve, most often the sciatic nerve. While the most common reason for this pinched nerve is disc herniation, other disc problems can cause this pain.

What are some common causes of lower back pain?

Herniated or Bulging Disc. A herniated disc is a common cause of severe back pain and sciatica. Discs are soft flexible "shock absorbers" that separate each of the bones, or vertebrae, in the spine. These discs have a rigid outside rim, but are soft and gel-like inside. Activity, stress, or a mechanical problem in the spine can cause one of the discs to bulge and become misshapen. A disc becomes herniated when it degenerates to the point that the gelatin within the disc protrudes outward. Classic low back pain occurs if this material extrudes or bulges far enough to press against a nerve root.

Degenerative Disc Disease. This condition is a major cause of chronic low back pain. Because the discs in the spine do not have a dedicated blood supply, the discs must rely on a process called diffusion to receive their supply of water, nutrients, and oxygen. If the flow of these elements is disrupted, the vertebral discs can degenerate. This degeneration can cause spinal structures to pinch (impinge) nerve roots, thereby causing pain. Vertebral discs can also degenerate simply due to the aging process.

Posterior Facet Syndrome. The facet joints can wear down. In such cases, a nerve can become pinched (impinged) and cause pain.

Sciatica. Sciatica refers to a pain felt along the length of the sciatic nerve. The pain is usually felt in the buttock where it radiates down the back of the leg.

Acute Back Pain. Acute low back pain generally lasts less than six months. A few cases may resolve without medical attention, although many reoccur.

Chronic Back Pain. Chronic low back pain persists beyond six months.
How can I relieve my lower back pain?

There are a variety of options available to relieve lower back pain.

Many options involve surgery, painful injections, and heavy drug therapy. The complications from back surgery can be severe and may result in permanent debilitating conditions. Additionally, surgery can be extremely expensive and can require a long recovery period lasting several months. Pain medications can make it difficult to carry on with normal day-to-day activities.

Now there is a new option: IDD Therapy®. This innovative approach to relieve lower back pain is non-surgical, non-invasive and typically does not involve pain medications. The treatment is not only safe and painless, but also comfortable and relaxing.

In most cases, all non-invasive remedies should be exhausted before anyone is referred for surgery. Be sure to ask your doctor about non-invasive treatments for back pain.

For patients with a history of back pain and who are currently experiencing symptoms that are interfering with activities, the first step is proper diagnostic testing to determine the cause of the symptoms and the severity of the problem.



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IDD Therapy® is a registered trademark of North American Medical Corporation.

Q: How does IDD Therapy work?

A: IDD Therapy® provides a computer directed method of applying and achieving physical therapy treatment objectives without requiring the patient to participate in any exhaustive or painful exercise regimen. It is performed by a certified clinician. The IDD Therapy® device gently manipulates the offending spinal segment, while helping stretch and re-tone underlying musculature. The result is improved lumbar health and pain elimination in a significant amount of patients treated.