SERVICES

Disc Decompression Therapy

Disc decompression is a treatment that addresses pressure on a spinal nerve caused by an enlarged disc. This pressure can arise from a disc that is bulging, herniated, or has undergone degeneration.

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Disc Decompression Therapy

Disc Decompression Therapy

Biacuplasty, Annuloplasty & Nucleoplasty

Radiofrequency Ablation

Sympathetic Blocks or Neurolysis

The Disc Decompression Therapies
Available for Spinal Disc Problems

Nucleoplasty

A targeted approach for issues in the nucleus pulposus, the disc’s centre. It involves removing part of the disc material to reduce pressure on nerves, especially beneficial for bulging or contained herniated discs.

Percutaneous Discectomy

The Disc-FX procedure is a minimally invasive discectomy procedure for contained disc herniations. The herniated nucleus is manually removed, and an annuloplasty can be performed concurrently to treat annular tears.

Conditions That Can Be Treated with Disc Decompression Treatments

  • Herniated Disc (Slipped Disc): By removing the problematic disc material by disc decompression (nucleoplasty), the pressure on the nerve caused by protruding disc material will be relieved, leading to pain reduction and improved functionality.

  • Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc compressing a spinal nerve. Disc decompression can effectively alleviate this condition, resolving sciatica symptoms by reducing nerve pressure.

Advantages of Disc Decompression Treatment

Potential benefits of disc decompression include:

  • Minimally Invasive Approach: Smaller incisions typically lead to faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
  • Pain Relief: This method reduces nerve compression by targeting the herniated disc.
  • Reduced Risk of Complications: Minimally invasive with a lower risk of complications compared to open surgery.

What Happens During a Disc Decompression Treatment?

Spinal decompression therapy, such as nucleoplasty and Disc-FX, involves the following steps:

  • Diagnosis and Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment to determine the suitability of the procedure based on one's condition and medical history.
  • Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia or sedation is administered to ensure comfort.
  • Disc Material Removal: Specialised needles are used to remove problematic disc material, reducing pressure on the affected nerve.
  • Recovery and Follow-Up: Monitored in a recovery area with specific post-procedure instructions and scheduled follow-up appointments. Recovery time may vary from patient to patient, with some experiencing optimal outcomes within a few days while others experience it within weeks.

Am I a Candidate for Disc Decompression Treatment?

A pain specialist can best assess your candidacy. Spinal decompression therapy could be beneficial depending on your diagnosis (herniated disc, sciatica, spinal stenosis), severity of symptoms, overall health, and absence of contraindications (pregnancy, osteoporosis). 

Post-Procedure Expectations for Disc Decompression Treatment

After undergoing a disc decompression treatment, patients typically encounter the following:

  • Mild Discomfort: It is common to feel some soreness at the puncture site.
  • Activity Restrictions: Limiting strenuous physical activities for a period, usually a few weeks, is often recommended.
  • Pain Assessment: Pain relief and recovery progress are regularly assessed, and pain medications may be prescribed as needed.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: These are crucial for monitoring recovery and adjusting treatment plans.
  • Physiotherapy: Engaging in exercises tailored to your condition may be advised to enhance mobility and strength in affected areas.

Is The Disc Decompression Treatment Safe?

Disc decompression therapy is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it may involve some risks. Commonly reported side effects include:

  • Mild or temporary soreness in the treated area
  • Muscle spasms
  • Shooting pains down the legs
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Pain Management
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Anaesthesia
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The Pain Clinic The Pain Clinic - Dr. Ho Kok Yuen

Dr. Ho Kok Yuen

MBBS, MMed (Anaes), FAMS (Anaes), GDSM (Sports Med)
Specialist, Pain Management & Anaesthesiology
Credentials of Excellence
  • Fellow, Interventional Pain Practice (FIPP) with the WIP
  • European Society of Regional Anaesthesia & Pain Therapy Diploma of Pain Medicine (ESRA-DPM)
  • European Diploma in Pain Medicine (EDPM), European Pain Federation EFIC
  • Graduate Diploma in Sports Medicine (GDSM), Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMed)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About Disc Decompression Treatment

Does the disc decompression treatment hurt?

Disc decompression treatments generally do not cause pain as it is a minimally invasive procedure with small incisions involved under local anaesthesia. Many patients experience a mild stretching sensation or minor pressure during the procedure but not discomfort or pain.

What is the typical timeline for improvement after undergoing disc decompression?

The time frame to observe improvement varies widely among patients. Some individuals might start experiencing relief from symptoms within a few days or weeks post-procedure. However, for others, it may take a few months of slow and steady recovery to attain the full benefit of the procedure.

Insurance and Health
Network Coverage

We work with various insurance partners to assist with your hospitalisation and surgery claims. In some instances, pre-approval from your insurer allows direct billing between the hospital and insurer so that you will have peace of mind during your treatment. We are MOH-accredited so you may also utilise MediSave for your hospitalisation expenses.

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