Back Pain Forum - Non - surgical spinal decompression as an alternative to surgery

Conditions and Diseases > Back Pain Forum > Non - surgical spinal decompression as an alternative to surgery

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Q: Non - surgical spinal decompression as an alternative to surgery

asked by: DoctorQuestion on May 28th, 2009

I am a 31 year old male with 3 herniated disks in my lower back. L-3, 4, and 5 to be exact. This was diagnosed about 2 years ago. Since then I have been doing daily physical therapy and have been taking elevil and mobic daily. Recently (April) I got my first blow out I have had since the Diagnosis. I was out of work and on my back for 4 days because of it. Now, every 3 years I go backpacking to Yosemite or various areas around there. I am scheduled to go again this coming August. However, I am scared this time around because the last thing I want to have happen is a blow out in the middle of the mountains and have my friends carry me for days to the nearest doctor. I feel the pressure on my back and a slight tingle at least once a week. Needless to say the presence of this injury has by no means left. Is it wise to go on this 9 day hiking trip? The conditions are rough and there is a day hike up Mt. Whitney which I always wanted to do, but how wise of a choice is that?

Replies(1)

Dr. Antonio Marotta , D.C.

replied on May 29th, 2009

Back Pain Answer A6689

In order to answer this question you must weigh out the risk verses the benefit. Are you willing to risk another "blow-out" or risk having your friends carry you (what if they just leave you there!). This is a difficult question to answer, and is more a personal choice.

Have you tried non-surgical spinal decompression? Many PT's and Chiropractors utilize this technique to relieve disc pressure on the spinal nerves. Good luck.

Antonio Marotta, D.C.

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