Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal Decompression Therapy involves the combination of tractioning the spine with specific positioning of the body to take the pressure off the discs and joints of the spine. Through this process, the proper healing of those structures can occur.
Conditions Often Treated By Decompression:
- Low Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Herniated Disc
- Bulging Disc
- Sciatica
- Degenerative Disc or Joint Disease
- Headaches
- Posterior Facet Syndrome
- Muscular Tension
Oftentimes, the symptoms are virtually eliminated following this highly effective therapy. With a success rate exceeding 80%, it is no wonder spinal decompression therapy is the leading non surgical alternative to spinal surgery.
How Does It Work?
The sophisticated equipment gently distracts the spinal bones to allow the natural healing process to begin. Depending upon the diagnosis, treatment usually lasts between 8-20 minutes and usually require between 12-20 treatments.
ARTICLE FROM MARCH 2007 NEWSLETTER:
Decompression therapy
Non-surgical alternative for low back and neck pain
Jennifer E. Walker, D.C.
Balance Chiropractic & Wellness
Unfortunately, there are some patients that require more than chiropractic, physical therapy and medications to alleviate their pain. Some of you may have noticed the advertisements in the newspaper indicating that you should "call for your free report" on a non-surgical approach to back or neck pain. The program the advertisement is referring to is called "Spinal Decompression Therapy," which we offer in our office! Fortunately, most of you have not required this treatment as you were helped through chiropractic alone. However, I have had a few patients come into my office who have required this intervention in order to provide them with relief from pain.
How does this therapy work anyway? Decompression therapy effectively treats protruding, bulging or herniated discs by creating a vacuum effect within the disc. Therefore, the disc can be gently repositioned and healing can occur naturally. Decompression therapy gets to the cause of pain by repairing the damaged disc and gently taking the pressure off the pain producing nerves. It can also treat degenerative disc disease (thinning of the discs) by taking pressure off the disc and allowing the fluid to go back into the disc. Conditions best treated through this therapy include the following: disc herniations, facet syndrome, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, spinal stenosis and even some headaches.
The treatment protocol is typically between 18-24 visits; however, the diagnosis and severity of the symptoms will dictate the treatment plan. Most of these sessions are covered by most insurance plans; however, cash payment plans are available for those without chiropractic or physical therapy coverage. A typical session for the low back includes the following: 20 minute Decompression Therapy session, ice for 10 minutes (sometimes with electrical therapy if inflammation or discomfort is present), spinal manipulation and/or active rehabilitation. The good news is that current research demonstrates an 86%-94% success rate among participants.
You may know someone who has been suffering from chronic low back or neck pain, who may have already tried chiropractic or physical therapy for their pain. These patients may be a great candidate for "Spinal Decompression Therapy;" however, they will not know whether or not we can help them unless they come in for an evaluation. Please have them contact our office at (540) 343-0055 to schedule an examination to determine if they can be helped with the advanced, non-surgical alternative called Spinal Decompression Therapy. n
