Numb feet: how neurovertebral decompression provides relief

You know this a strange tingling sensation in your feet... Numbness that persists when you get up after a day's work, or wakes you up at night. Symptoms you may have tried to treat with massage, stretching or medication, without lasting results. 

If this description sounds familiar, you could be suffering from foot numbness caused by nerve compression at spinal level.

At our Chiro Ste-Rose clinic in Laval, we regularly meet patients like Marc, a 43-year-old computer technician, who has long ignored these sensations in his feet. "I thought it was normal, part of aging or work-related fatigue. After all, I spend my days sitting in front of a screen," he confided. It was only when the numbness began to affect his mobility and sleep that he looked for a solution.

What Marc didn't know, like many of our patients, is that numbness in the feet often reveals a problem that originates much higher up in the body: in the lumbar spine. Contrary to popular belief, this symptom is not usually a local foot problem, but rather the distal manifestation of a compression of the nerve roots that, like electrical wires, transmit sensory and motor information between your brain and your extremities.

Neurovertebral decompression, and particularly the SpineMED technology we use in our clinic, represents a revolutionary approach to treating numbness at its source, without recourse to surgery or medication. This method addresses the underlying cause of your symptoms: compression of the nerves that innervate your feet.

Why your feet go numb: the little-known path of the sciatic nerve

The main protagonist of this story is the sciatic nerve, the largest and longest nerve in our body. This extraordinary nerve originates from the lumbar and sacral nerve roots (principally L4, L5, S1, S2 and S3) before running almost the entire length of your leg, eventually innervating various parts of your foot. Each nerve root is responsible for a specific area - or dermatome - of your foot:

• The L4 root mainly innervates the medial (inner) part of your foot and your big toe.
• The L5 root is responsible for sensation in the upper part of the foot and the first, 2nd and 3rd toes.
• The S1 root controls sensitivity of the lateral (outer) border of the foot and of the 4th and 5th toes

What makes this neurological architecture so vulnerable is its starting point. Nerve roots emerge from the spinal cord through small openings between vertebrae. These narrow passages, called intervertebral foramen, can easily become bottlenecks when degenerative or traumatic changes occur in the spine.

"Numbness in the foot is not a dysfunction of the foot itself, but rather a warning signal indicating a problem with the spine."It's comparable to watering: if you pinch the hose near the source, the end of the garden will run out of water.

Several conditions can compress these nerve roots:

1. Herniated discs When the gelatinous material inside an intervertebral disc protrudes and exerts direct pressure on a nerve root
2. Spinal stenosis A narrowing of the spinal canal, which limits the space available for the nerves.
3. Degenerative disc disease The progressive wear of intervertebral discs, which reduces the space between vertebrae.
4. Vertebral subluxation A malfunction of the vertebrae that interferes with nerve function

What distinguishes spinal numbness from other causes (such as circulatory problems or diabetes) is its very precise distribution along a specific dermatome, and its frequent association with lumbar pain or pain radiating down the leg. Numbness is typically aggravated by certain positions, such as prolonged sitting or static standing.

Neurovertebral decompression: much more than just stretching the back

Neurovertebral decompression is a non-surgical therapeutic technique that applies precise, computer-controlled traction forces to specific segments of the spine. 

Unlike traditional traction methods, which exert a continuous, uniform force over the entire spine, modern neurovertebral decompression uses complex algorithms to create alternating cycles of traction and relaxation, precisely targeting the vertebral levels involved in your symptoms.

But how does this process specifically relieve numbness in your feet? The mechanism of action involves several physiological dimensions:

1. Creation of intradiscal negative pressureThis negative pressure can literally "suck" herniated material into the disc, reducing compression on the adjacent nerve roots that control sensation in your feet.
2. Rehydration and disc regenerationDecompression: Decompression facilitates the imbibition process by creating "pumping" cycles that allow the discs to rehydrate and recover their optimal height, increasing space for the nerves.
3. Relaxation of paravertebral muscle tensionThe muscle spasms that often accompany disc problems create a vicious circle of compression. Progressive decompression relaxes these muscles.
4. Improved segment mobilityDecompression restores normal movement between the vertebrae, which is essential for keeping the intervertebral foramen open, through which the nerves innervating your feet pass.

According to data compiled byInstitut de Décompression Neurovertébrale (IDN Clinic, Brossard, Quebec)a study of 778 patients with disc lesions showed that 71 % of them report a complete disappearance or very marked improvement in their symptoms - including foot numbness - after a SpineMED® neurovertebral decompression. 

This remarkable effectiveness is due to the direct action on the root cause of the problem - nerve compression - rather than on the symptoms themselves.

The SpineMED technology we use offers distinctive advantages over other decompression systems:

• Ultra-precise targeting of the spinal segment involved in neurological symptoms in the feet
• Sensors detect protective muscle contractions and adjust force in real time
• A comfortable pelvic restraint system that maximizes treatment efficiency while minimizing discomfort
• Complete computerized customization of treatment parameters to suit your specific condition

A precise protocol for optimal results

Neurovertebral decompression for foot numbness is not a one-off procedure, but rather a structured therapeutic process. At our Chiro Ste-Rose clinic, we follow a rigorous protocol, customized for each patient but following a clinically proven methodical framework.

It all starts with a thorough diagnostic evaluation. Before even considering neurovertebral decompression, we carry out..:

• A complete neuro-musculo-skeletal examination to assess your entire spine and nervous system
• Precise mapping of numb areas in your feet to identify potentially affected nerve roots
• Specific neurological tests such as the Lasègue test (outstretched leg) to confirm nerve root involvement
• If necessary, imaging tests to visualize nerve compression

Once this assessment has been completed, a personalized treatment protocol is drawn up. This protocol generally takes place in several phases:

Induction phase (1-2 weeks)

• 2to3 weekly sessions
• Progressive traction time, starting with 30 minutes
• Gentle pulling force, starting at about 10% of body weight
• Application of heat before treatment to relax muscles
• Post-treatment cold therapy to minimize any inflammatory reaction

Correction phase (3-6 weeks)

• 2-3 weekly sessions
• Optimum traction time of 30 minutes
• Tensile force customized to your needs
• Integration of specific exercises between sessions

Stabilization phase (2-3 weeks)

• 1-2 weekly sessions
• Maintaining optimal processing parameters
• Greater emphasis on active rehabilitation and lifestyle modifications

Maintenance phase (as needed)

• Monthly sessions or as needed
• Preventing relapses and maintaining gains

Each neurovertebral decompression session follows a precise sequence that includes preparation with heat application, positioning on the SpineMED table, decompression sequence with alternating cycles of traction and relaxation, followed by the application of cold therapy.

Beyond decompression: an integrative approach to numb feet

While neurovertebral decompression is the core of our approach to treating spinal foot numbness, it is part of a broader therapeutic strategy. At our Chiro Ste-Rose clinic, we take a holistic view that recognizes the interconnectedness of all the body's systems.

To maximize the benefits of neurovertebral decompression and ensure lasting results, we integrate several complementary modalities:

1. Specific chiropractic adjustments

Vertebral subluxations can contribute to nerve compression. Precise chiropractic adjustments can restore optimal spinal function and improve spinal joint mobility.

2. Targeted therapeutic exercise program

Specific exercises are prescribed to strengthen the deep stabilizing muscles of the lumbar spine, improve posture and reduce stress on the intervertebral discs.

3. Personalized ergonomic advice

Our team assesses your daily environment and provides specific recommendations for optimizing your sitting and standing posture, adapting your workstation, and modifying your lifting and carrying techniques.

4. Nutritional strategies and stress management

We also incorporate anti-inflammatory nutritional advice and stress management techniques to optimize results.

"The key to long-term success lies in this integrative approach".says Dr. Michele Bernatchez, Chiropractor, DC, BSc. Decompression creates the optimal physiological conditions for healing, but the other elements of the treatment plan ensure that these benefits are maintained and reinforced day after day."

Get your feet feeling normal again

Numbness in the feet, far from being a mere inconvenience or age-related inevitability, is often a warning signal indicating nerve compression in your spine. The link between your lumbar spine and the sensation in your feet is direct and profound, creating both a therapeutic challenge and an opportunity for targeted treatment.

Neurovertebral decompression, particularly with the SpineMED technology we use at our Chiro Ste-Rose clinic, represents a significant advance in the treatment of this debilitating condition. By directly addressing the root cause - nerve root compression - rather than just the symptoms, this approach offers a non-invasive solution with remarkable success rates.

What particularly distinguishes our approach at Chiro Ste-Rose is the combination of this cutting-edge technology with a holistic vision of care. We recognize that every patient is unique, that each nerve compression has its own particularities, and that the path to recovery must be personalized and multidimensional.

If you suffer from numbness in the feet, especially if accompanied by lower back pain or pain radiating down the leg, we encourage you to consult us for a complete evaluation. Resolution of these symptoms may be more attainable than you think, without the need for invasive procedures or long-term medication.

Neurovertebral decompression could be the solution you've been looking for.. To find out more about this innovative approach or to determine whether it would be suitable for your specific condition, we invite you to discover our page dedicated to this technology : 

Don't wait for numbness to worsen or become permanent. Contact us today to book an appointment and start your journey towards feet that feel and function like new. Your feet will thank you! Book your initial consultation online: https://www.gorendezvous.com/chirosterose

P.S. Did you know that the distance between your lumbar spine and your feet is about one meter, but that the time it takes for a nerve impulse to travel this distance is only a few milliseconds? Fast as your nervous system is, don't waste any time in freeing up these precious communication channels!

Frequently asked questions about foot numbness and neurovertebral decompression

How can I tell if my numb feet are caused by a spinal problem?

Numbness of spinal origin generally has distinctive features: it follows a precise distribution corresponding to a specific nerve dermatome, is often accompanied by lumbar pain or pain radiating down the leg, and typically worsens with certain positions such as prolonged sitting. Professional assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Is neurovertebral decompression painful?

No, neurovertebral decompression is generally painless. Most patients describe the experience as comfortable, even relaxing. The SpineMED system uses sophisticated sensors that detect any muscle tension and instantly adjust the force applied, thus avoiding discomfort.

How many sessions are needed to resolve foot numbness?

The number of sessions varies according to the underlying cause, severity and chronicity of your condition. A typical protocol includes 15 to 25 sessions spread over 6 to 10 weeks.

 Improvements are often noticeable after 1 to 7 sessions, although results vary from person to person.

Are there any contraindications to neurovertebral decompression?

Although generally very safe, neurovertebral decompression is not recommended in certain situations, including: recent vertebral fracture, recent surgery with metal implants in the area to be treated, severe osteoporosis, spinal tumors, unstable spondylolisthesis grade 3 or higher, and pregnancy. A thorough evaluation is always carried out before recommending this treatment.