Spinal decompression therapy has a high success rate for pain associated with herniated or bulging discs… even after failed surgery. It is a non-surgical, traction based outcome for the relief of back and leg pain or neck and arm pain. During this procedure, by cycling through distraction and relaxation phases and by proper positioning, a spinal disc can be placed under negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it.
Why does this negative pressure affect an injured disc?
During spinal decompression therapy, a negative pressure is created within the disc. Because of that negative pressure, disc material that has protruded or herniated can be pulled back within the normal confines of the disc, and permit healing to occur.
How is Spinal Decompression Therapy different from regular traction?
The award winning Triton computer is the key. It controls the variation in the traction pull allowing for spinal decompression and eliminating muscle guarding that is typical in conventional traction devices. The preprogrammed patterns for tamping up and down the amount of axial distraction allows for higher levels of spinal decompression and disc
rehydration.
Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Anyone who has back pain or neck pain caused in whole or in part by a damaged disc may be helped by spinal decompression therapy. These conditions include herniated, protruding or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica or radiculopathy (pinched nerves).
Are there medical studies that document the effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Yes! One study documented by MRI up to 90% reduction of disc herniations in 10 to 14 cases and the other studies reported that the majority of ruptured disc patients achieved “good’ to “excellent” results after spinal decompression therapy.
Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is not recommended?
Spinal decompression therapy is not recommended for pregnant women, patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity, or severe nerve damage.
Spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws, metal plates or “cages”) is also contraindicated. However, spinal decompression therapy after bone fusion or non-fusion surgery, can be performed.
Are the sessions painful and how many will be needed?
In almost all cases, the treatments are completely painless. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the spinal decompression session.
The specific treatment plan will be determined by the doctor after your examination. Based on current research and our clinical experience, the best results have been achieved utilizing 20 sessions over a 6-week period.
Do most patients receive therapy and rehabilitative exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?
To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures are treated with passive therapies (ice/heat/muscle stimulation), chiropractic adjustments (as indicated) and/or active rehabilitation in order to strengthen the spinal musculature.
We want to make it easy for you to learn if you are a candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy. Just call our office today (972-930-9566) and schedule an appointment for a complete evaluation – including consultation, history, orthopedic/neurological testing, X-rays (if indicated) and a report of findings. You can also call and speak to either Dr. Mitch or Dr. Robin directly if you just have questions.