Spinal Decompression Surgery | Therapy & Treatments | MedStar Health

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MedStar Health is home to a team of fellowship-trained orthopedic and neurosurgeons who specialize in performing spinal surgery, such as spinal decompression. Our experienced spine surgeons offer you the comprehensive care you need for an effective procedure and a successful recovery, teamed with spinal decompression therapy specialists.

Spinal decompression treatments and therapy options are located in the Washington DC, Baltimore, Maryland, and Virginia areas.

What is spinal decompression?

This surgical procedure can alleviate back pain and sciatica, which is the tingling, numbing, and painful sensation associated with a pinched nerve. In general, spinal decompression surgery removes damaged portions of the spine that are causing pressure on the nerve root. During the surgery, your doctor will likely perform one of two common spinal decompression treatments, depending on your individual needs:

  • Microdiscectomy: Also known as microdecompression, during this procedure, a small incision is made in the back through which damaged portions of a spinal disc are removed.

  • Laminectomy: This procedure creates more space in the spinal canal for the nerve root in order to reduce pressure. In turn, this reduces back pain and restores a wider range of motion.

What does spinal decompression recovery look like?

After your procedure, you will be advised of your next steps by your physician. Depending on your unique condition, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a recovery plan that meets all of your needs. MedStar Health is made up of experts in a variety of medical specialties, so we can coordinate any specific recovery care needs for you all in one place, including physical therapy and rehabilitation.

What are the benefits of spinal decompression surgery?

The benefits of visiting MedStar Health for this type of procedure include:

  • Back pain relief

  • Leg pain relief

  • Improved mobility

  • Improved range of motion

  • Relief from sciatica

Why is spinal decompression performed?

This procedure is usually performed to alleviate back pain associated with treating the following spine conditions:

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