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Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy? Spinal Decompression therapy is FDA cleared and is very successful in relieving pain associated with herniated or bulging discs, even after a failed surgery. It is a non-surgical traction based treatment to relieve back and leg pain or neck and arm pain. During the procedure a series of distraction and relaxation phases occur at a very specific angle. A spinal disc can be isolated and a negative pressure(vacuum) can be created inside the disc. How does this negative pressure help a herniated disc? During spinal decompression therapy a negative pressure(vacuum) is created within the disc. Because of that negative pressure, disc material that has been herniated can be pulled back within the disc and allow healing to occur. What system is used for this purpose? After significant research, Obermeyer Chiropractic chose the Triton DTS manufactured by the Chattanooga Group, the premiere manufacturer of physical medicine equipment. More importantly we have the 2007 computerized decompression head which is the most sophisticated and technologically advanced unit in the world. In fact, the 2007 Triton DTS head is so revolutionary that it won the 2006 Australian Design Award in the "Medical and Scientific" category. We also selected the Triton DTS System for its ability to treat discs in both the neck and low back. How is Spinal Decompression Therapy Different from regular traction? The award winning Triton Computer is the difference. It controls the variations in traction pull allowing for spinal decompression, and eliminating muscle pull or guarding that occurs with traditional traction systems. Studies verify the significant reduction of intradiscal pressures in the negative pressure range, to approximately -150mm/HG, which results in the non-surgical decompression of the disc and nerve root. Traditional traction has never demonstrated reduction of intradiscal pressure to negative ranges; on the contrary-many standard traction devices may actually increase intradiscal pressure due to reflex muscle spasm. The DTS Decompression system is designed to apply traction to the patient's spine without eliciting reflex muscle contractions. Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy? Anyone who in whole or in part has back or neck pain caused by a damaged disc. 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! There have been numerous studies performed and one study, which documented by MRI, showed up to 90% reduction of disc herniations in 10 of 14 cases. Other studies report that the majority of ruptured disc patients achieve "good" to "excellent" results after spinal decompression therapy. Download the PDFs below if you would like to review the studies yourself:
Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is not indicated? Spinal decompression is not recommended for pregnant women, patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity, or severe nerve damage. Previous spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws, metal plates, cages) is also contraindicated. However spinal decompression therapy after bone fusion, microdiscectomy or non-fusion surgery can be performed. Are the treatments painful, how many will I need and what will it cost? In most cases, the treatments are painless and some patients will even fall asleep during the session. The specific treatment plan for each individual patient will be determined by Dr. Obermeyer or Dr. Enneking after a complete examination and consultation. Based on the current research, the best results are achieved with a series of 18 treatments over a period of 6 weeks. Most insurance plans do have chiropractic benefits that will cover spinal decompression treatments. In the case that insurance is not available, our fees are very affordable and a payment plan can be arranged if needed. Do most patients receive physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy? To reduce inflammation and improve the healing process of the disc, supporting structures are treated with passive therapies (muscle stimulation, ultrasound, massage therapy), chiropractic adjustments (as indicated), and active rehabilitation exercises in order to strengthen the spinal musculature. How do I get started? We want to make it easy for you to learn if Dr. Obermeyer or Dr. Enneking feel that you may be a candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Most insurance plans will cover the evaluation necessary to determine if you are a candidate. If you do not have insurance, please remember that we have many patients with no chiropractic benefits utilizing our services because we have very affordable fees. So call today if you would like to see if spinal decompression therapy could help relieve your pain and/or prevent you from having surgery. Thank you. |