What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
This is a state of the art non-surgical procedure designed to relieve pain associated with herniated discs, degenerative discs, facet syndrome, arthritis, and sciatica. This technique provides traction (to either the lumbar or cervical spine region) which helps the vertebrae column to gently elongate while alleviating pressure, promoting blood and fluid flow, and improving health-without costly and invasive spinal surgery.
How does this negative pressure affect the 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.
What system is used for this purpose?
After a significant amount of research, our office chose the Triton® DTS system manufactured by the Chattanooga Group, the premier manufacturer of physical medicine equipment. More importantly, we have the brand new computerized head which is the most sophisticated and technologically advanced unit in the world. No office - and we do mean NO OFFICE - has more "state of the art" spinal decompression systems. In fact, the new Triton® head is so revolutionary that it won the 2006 Australian Design Award in the "Medical and Scientific" category. We also selected the Triton® DTS systems due to their ability to treat discs in both the neck and the low back.
How is Spinal Decompression Therapy different from regular traction?
The award winning Triton® computer is the key. It controls the variations in the traction pull allowing for spinal decompression and eliminating muscle guarding that is typical in conventional traction devices. The preprogrammed patterns for ramping 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 of 14 cases and 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 indicated?
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, 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 number of sessions needed and your specific treatment plan will be determined by the doctor after your examination. Typically, twelve to twenty sessions are needed.
Do most patients receive therapy and rehabilitative exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?
To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures may be treated with passive therapies (ice/heat/muscle stimulation), chiropractic adjustments (as indicated) and/or active rehabilitation in order to strengthen the spinal musculature.
How do I get started?
We want to make it easy for you to learn if you are a candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Just call our office to arrange a consultation with the doctor. Please remember to bring any MRI reports, etc., so the doctor can review them and best advise you about your treatment options. If you have not been evaluated for your condition, we can fully evaluate you, including X-rays, MRI, etc., provided these are necessary.
