Spine Expert Advocates Non-Surgical Solutions for Chronic Back and Neck Pain at New Lagos Clinic

Dr. Craig Slapinski of Spine and Nerve Centre Nigeria introduces non-surgical decompression and laser therapy to Lagos for chronic back and neck pain relief.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 5:56 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Leadership News

Expanding Advanced Spine Care to Lagos

The Spine and Nerve Centre Nigeria has officially expanded its operations to Lagos, offering a specialized alternative to traditional spinal surgery. Clinical Director Dr. Craig Slapinski noted that the expansion follows a successful inaugural year in Abuja. The center focuses on providing safe, gentle, and efficient relief for the millions of Nigerians currently battling chronic back and neck pain. According to Slapinski, research indicates that the vast majority of patients who qualify for care can achieve significant recovery without the need for invasive procedures, which often carry long term risks such as tissue scarring or vertebrae fusion.

The Mechanics of Non-Surgical Decompression

The center’s primary therapeutic tool is a specialized decompression table designed to treat intervertebral disc issues directly. Unlike traditional traction, these tables gently pull the vertebrae apart at a speed that does not trigger the body’s natural muscle-guarding reflex. This allows the treatment to target the discs and ligaments specifically. Slapinski explained that by creating negative pressure within the disc space, the procedure can help retract herniated material and encourage the flow of healing nutrients into the spine. This technology, while common in the United States, represents a brand-new frontier in Nigerian healthcare.

Accelerating Recovery with Cold Laser Therapy

To complement spinal decompression, the clinic utilizes cold laser therapy to stimulate cellular repair. This treatment directs a concentrated beam of light into injured soft tissues, boosting the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)—the primary energy source for cells. Slapinski noted that when cells are injured or dormant, they fail to respond to traditional recovery signals. By reactivating these cells through laser technology, the healing process is significantly accelerated. This dual approach of mechanical decompression and biological stimulation forms the core of the center’s "cutting-edge" methodology.