Spinal Decompression Therapy
Decompression therapy has the potential to provide a space for a disc that has been compressed (in many cases, quite literally smashed) between vertebrae above and below. It can also provide space for nerve(s) that have been pinched. It does this by implementing traction which is a stretching force.
Decompression therapy is, in truth, an old dog that has learned some new and exciting tricks. Traction therapy has been used for a very, very long time on painful low back conditions where a vertebral disc has become compressed, causing it to bulge or herniate compressing a nerve. In many of these conditions, the patient can suffer unrelenting pain in the back or leg (or both), numbness, weakness and spasm. In the days previous to the modern traction tables -decompression is the result of repeated tractioning of the spine- traction was accomplished (if at all) by a rope and pulley system connected to the body on one end and a weighted container on the other. It was, to say the least, a primitive system by comparison. One would fill these containers (usually a bag) with canned veggies or water, connect it to the neck or waist and lay there and wait.
Well, someone very smart decided that if traction tables were combined with computers, we could accomplish much, MUCH more with regard to actual decompression.
Today's decompression machines are fully computerized tractioning devices connected to "frictionless tables". They are designed to construct individual treatment plans personal to the patient's particular needs which, incidentally, will change as treatment progresses; and to deliver it in the most comfortable and efficient manner possible. We can now change forces, speeds, angles, timing and so on. It is, in fact, so comfortable that many of my patients will fall asleep during treatment. It is only after they are on their feet again following a treatment that they realize the full extent of the change.
How well does decompression work?
One must keep in mind that there are varying degrees of damage, pain and the such with any given condition but I have found in this clinic that approximately 7 of 10 cases respond very well to decompression treatment. "Very well" means that they have approximately 80% resolution of pain symptoms and most of my patients are able to return to the majority of their activities as well. Honestly, if I had the choice between this and any other option on the market for a herniated or bulging disc, I would not give it a second thought; decompression would come first PERIOD!
Which table do I work with?
When researching this, 3 years ago, I went to the east coast for the express purpose of seeing the "state of the art" in side by side comparisons. From what I knew of what was out there on the market at the time, one was looking at a second mortgage on a house to make a decompression table purchase, and I wanted to see and feel the products.
After an exhaustive review, I purchased the Triton Decompression/Traction System by Chatannooga for a few reasons: I was convinced it would get the job done, I didn't have to mortgage my house for the machine and I would be able to pass those savings on to my patients i.e. I don't want you to have to mortgage your house to get your back fixed!
How long does it take?
Again, this is somewhat case specific, but from 2-4 months will usually do the job. We generally begin with 3 treatments per week for about the first month and then reduce the frequency as healing begins. I find that if the treatment is stretched out a bit longer that the body tends to heal better. This doesn't necessarily mean that the treatment is more expensive, just that the intervals of treatment coincide with an extended duration.
There are often many other treatments that are used concurrent with decompression therapy such as spinal adjustments, electrotherapies, cold laser and stretching and strengthening exercises. When these therapies are used in the proper combination, the results are often astounding. Consults with a more inclusive explanation on theory, an opportunity to meet me, etc. are always free.