Spinal Decompression Therapy

Overview

Spinal Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical, traction-based procedure that helps to reduce or eliminate back and/or neck pain and pinched nerve conditions. It involves intermittently stretching the spine through a series of movements using a specialized machine.

The spine is made up of vertebra, discs and nerves. When there’s too much pressure placed onto a disc, it can herniate and cause nerve pain, which can interfere with day-to-day life. One of the purposes of spinal decompression therapy is to apply a gradual traction force which prevents the para-spinal muscles from spasming. It simultaneously produces a negative intradiscal pressure which encourages the retraction of a herniated or bulging disc.

Oxygen and blood can then freely move into the damaged area, promoting healing.

Patients may wish to explore spinal decompression therapy before committing to medications or surgery due to its effectiveness and non-invasiveness. It is a cost effective, nonsurgical, noninvasive treatment, and is covered by over 50 insurance plans, making it desirable as a first option for many patients in pain.

What Is It For?

Spinal decompression therapy can be used to treat a range of problems and conditions. These can include:

• Neck pain
• Sciatica
• Failed back surgery
• Degenerative disc disease
• Bulging or herniated disc
• Lower back pain
• Facet arthritis
• Radiculopathy

What Does The Procedure Involve?

When you arrive at the outpatient clinic or doctor’s office, you will first have a discussion with your practitioner who will explain the procedure and answer your questions.

You will remain fully clothed and lay down on a comfortable computer-controlled table for 30-60 minutes.

Your spine will be pulled with delicate intermittent traction in a specific way to relieve pressure within the spinal discs. The process is very gentle, with minimal or no pain or discomfort. Often patients report instant pain relief and even fall asleep during the session.

After the treatment you will be able to go about your day as normal. There is no downtime and no need for a recovery period at the clinic. Many patients report immediate improvement. However, for the best results, it is recommended that you attend at least 10 to 20 sessions to achieve long term results.

Chiropractic treatments or physical therapy are normally recommended alongside spinal decompression therapy, as well as passive therapies such as the application of ice or heat to prevent inflammation. This ensures the most effective long term results.

What Are The Benefits?

Spinal decompression therapy has proven to be safe and effective for reducing a patient’s pain levels. Research has shown that 85% of patients who undergo this therapy report positive results. The American Journal of Pain Management reported in 1997 that 86% of ruptured intervertebral disc patients and 75% of facet arthrosis patients experienced significant improvement with decompression therapy.

Furthermore, a report published in Orthopaedic Technology Review in 2003 showed that 84% of spinal decompression patients remained pain free for 90 days after their final treatment.

One primary benefit of spinal decompression therapy is that it is affordable and may reduce your risk of needing surgery in the future. It can be used as a sole treatment, or in conjunction with other pain relief methods such as physical therapy or interventional pain management techniques.

If your pain levels do reduce, then you can expect a better quality life and sleeping pattern.

To hear more about how spinal decompression therapy can help you, call us now.