Learn More About... Disc Injuries
DISC INJURIES: THE COX PROTOCOL, A GENTLE, SCIENTIFIC ALTERNATIVE TO SURGERY
Dr. Strasser is a specialist in the non-force, non-surgical care of low back and neck disc injuries, leg and arm pain, associated with bulging, herniated and ruptured discs. Dr. Strasser has over 20 years of experience helping patients manage Disc Injuries. He works closely with neurosurgeons and neurologists in providing a trial of conservative care prior to considering surgical intervention for discs.
The Cox Protocol, developed by Dr. James Cox, provides a well-researched chiropractic approach that is gentle and uniquely effective. Dr. Strasser attended his first seminar with Dr. Cox in the early 1980's and has continued to update his skills in treating disc injuries. This protocol is called "flexion-distraction" technique (or disc decompression). It is a drugless, gentle technique involving the use of a flexion-distraction table by a physician trained in its use and a protocol of care, which includes an organized set of treatments, home instructions and exercises.
While manual manipulation or thrusting-type of manipulation can be effective and appropriate for many spinal problems, Dr. Strasser does not use these methods in treating discs; he uses Cox protocol. Cox therapy involves highly-skilled maneuvers on the flexion-distraction table. It is not the same as widely-advertised "spinal decompression" or "computerized spinal decompression" programs.
For patients with disc bulging, protrusion or herniation, a program of flexion-distraction is initiated for a 4-6 week period. Dr. Strasser constantly evaluates progress with each visit. The patient must achieve a 50% improvement in symptoms and findings, such as leg or arm pain, at the end of this period. If not, the patient is assigned for an imaging study or a neurosurgical consultation. Over 90% of patients precede with the program with a resolution after 3-4 months. Patients are seen more frequently in the initial stage of treatment, and then the schedule is reduced and an increasing emphasis is put on rehabilitation.
Neurosurgeons recommend a course of conservative care, such as the Cox protocol, prior to surgery. Cox flexion-distraction used in conjunction with other chiropractic technigues and therapies is a gentle and effective solution to disc conditions.
Dr. Strasser has over 20 years of experience helping patients manage Disc Bulging, Herniation and Rupture of the neck and low back.We are always available to answer questions you may have regarding Dr. Strasser's approach to treating Disc Injuries.