Cox Flexion-Distraction Technique
Cox Technique is an extremely safe & effective, non-surgical, and well-researched method of spinal care. It is most often performed by chiropractors, osteopaths, physiotherapists and some medical doctors. The technique is based around a specialized treatment table built specifically for Cox flexion distraction therapy. The patient is positioned prone (tummy down) on the table. Through specifically located hinges in the neck and lower back regions of the table, the therapist can provide gentle flexion, side to side lateral flexion, rotational, and distraction stretches to the soft tissues around the spine. As the table is slowly moved, the therapist uses their hand to apply a gentle directional pressure to a specific spinal joint. These motions help alleviate pain by helping decompress the spinal joints, allowing greater mobility and less pain for the patient.
Cox is one of the safest, most comfortable, and effective methods of treating pain in the back or neck from a variety of spinal conditions, including arthritis and simple strains/sprains. Patients commonly describe the therapy as ‘feeling like a combination of massage with specific stretching for the back and neck’. Cox technique has been shown to help safely relieve back and neck pain, allowing a patient to return to their normal daily activities.
Research has shown that Cox Flexion-Distraction technique has the effect of:
- dropping intradiscal pressure (pressure within the disc spaces between the bones of the spine)
- widening spinal canal foramina area by 28%, thereby safely and effectively relieving pressure on spinals nerves (think SCIATICA!)
- returning motion to the spinal joints (the joints between the spinal bones), thereby slowing the progression of Osteoarthritis of the spine
At OC3, we safely and effectively combine Cox flexion distraction technique with various other evidence based therapies, such as ART (active release techniques), trigger point dry needling, massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, pilates, and other specific rehabilitative exercises.
To book an appointment for Cox Flexion-Distraction technique, please call our downtown Ottawa office and ask to see Dr. Chad Wilson.