What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is FDA cleared and has a high success rate for pain associated with herniated or bulging discs...even after failed surgery. It is a non-surgical, traction based therapy 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 isolated and placed under negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it.
How 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.
What decompression system do we utilize at Mountainview Chiropractic Center?
After extensive research into the appropriate system for our practice we found the Antalgic-Trakspinal range of motion decompression system to be the most effective. By allowing the spine to be decompressed in a multitude of positions, we have found the treatment to be much more effective.
To learn more about Antalgic-Trak please click the image below.
How is Spinal Decompression Therapy different from regular traction?
The computer that controls the Antalgic-Trak monitors 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.
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 specific treatment plan will be determined by the doctor after your examination. Based on current research, the best results have been achieved utilizing 20 sessions over a 6 to 8 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.
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.
