Q: What is Spinal Decompression Therapy, and how does it
work?
A: Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is a
spinal disc rehabilitation program that uses the latest
computerized technology that gently stretches the spine and
decompresses the discs. This technique of spinal
decompression therapy, that is, unloading due to distraction
and positioning, has shown the ability to gently separate
the vertebrae from each other, creating a vacuum inside the
discs that we are targeting. This "vacuum effect" is also
known as negative intradiscal pressure.
The negative pressure can induce the retraction of the
herniated or bulging disc into the inside of the disc, and
off the nerve root, thecal sac, or both. It happens only
microscopically each time, but cumulatively, over four to
six weeks, the results are quite dramatic.
The cycles of decompression and partial relaxation over a
series of visits, promotes the diffusion of water, oxygen,
and nutrient-rich fluids from the outside of the discs to
the inside. These nutrients enable the torn and degenerated
disc fibers to begin to heal.
Patients are treated fully clothed and are fitted with a
pelvic harness that fits around their pelvis as well as a
thoracic harness as they lie face down or face up on a
computerized controlled table. Our staff operates the table
from a computerized console. Each treatment takes about 25
to 60 minutes. Most patients find the sessions to be
comfortable, and relief of pain can sometimes be noticed in
the first few sessions. Of course, this varies depending on
the individual condition...
Q: Will Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression help a
slipped/bulging disc?
A: A “bulging” or "herniated" disc is sometimes
incorrectly referred to as a "slipped" disc. Studies
demonstrate that Spinal Decompression Therapy succeeds at
treating bulging or herniated discs over 80% of the time.
This of course varies depending on the complexity of the
injury and other factors.
Q: Are there any reasons that I can't go on this type of
therapy?
A: he doctor has to determine if you are a candidate
as there are certain conditions for which this therapy would
be contraindicated The doctors perform a screening process
and only then accept the cases they think this therapy can
help the most.
Certain people are not candidates for spinal decompression
therapy and usually have conditions such as:
-
Tumors
-
Abdominal
Aortic Aneurism
-
Fractures
-
Metal
Implants/Screws/Plates in spine
-
Advanced
Osteoporosis
-
Pregnancy
or
-
Certain
conditions (diseases) that compromise the structural
integrity of the spine and discs. These conditions are
present in only a small percentage of the population.
Q: How long does the treatment last?
A: Generally speaking the therapy lasts about 60 minutes
per session, with most cases lasting 4 to 6 weeks in
duration.