What is Spinal Decompression/Traction Therapy?
It is a non-surgical traction type therapy for back, leg, neck and arm pain. Spinal decompression is FDA approved and clinically has an 86% success rate for pain associated with bulging or herniated discs, even after failed back surgery. During the treatment, gentle distraction and relaxation phases are cycled through. A specific spinal disc is isolated and when placed under a negative pressure, a vacuum effect occurs. This effect causes a protruding or herniated disc to be pulled back within the disc by the vacuum created within the disc. Also, this vacuum stimulates growth of a blood supply which results in pain reduction and improved healing at the site of injury.
How is Spinal Decompression Therapy Different from other types of Traction?
The Decompression unit we have at our office controls the variations in the traction allowing for spinal decompression and eliminates muscle reaction and compression seen with typical traction devices. Since patterns are preprogrammed for ramping up and down, the axial distraction amount allows for higher levels of spinal decompression and disc rehydration.
When is Spinal Decompression not recommended?
It is not recommended for: pregnant women, severe osteoporosis, severe obesity, severe nerve damage and spinal surgery with instrumentation. However, it can be used after bone fusion or non-fusion surgery.
How often is treatment recommended and how long does a treatment take?
Treatment plans are specific to each individual’s needs after a thorough evaluation has been performed. Based on the current research, the best results have been achieved after about 20 sessions over a 6-10 week timeframe. Each session takes about 30-40 minutes. To speed healing, spinal stabilization exercises along with massage and core strengthening may be recommended.
Who Benefits from Spinal Decompression/Traction Therapy?
Those who have back, neck, leg or arm pain caused by damage to a disc which may include a: herniated, protruding or bulging disc, spinal stenosis, sciatica or radicular pain and degenerative joint disease.
What medical studies document effectiveness of Spinal Decompression?
The Eyerman study documented by MRI showed a 90% reduction of disc herniations in 10-14 cases.The Sealy-Borgmeyer study reported that 86% of patients with ruptured discs achieved “good” to “excellent” results after spinal decompression therapy.
Is it advisable to receive Therapy, Rehabilitative Exercises and Chiropractic Manipulation in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Yes. The goal is initially to reduce inflammation with passive therapies, stretching and chiropractic manipulation. Once improvement occurs, active rehabilitation is implemented to strengthen the spinal musculature.
What is the cost of Spinal Decompression/Traction Therapy?
This is a specialized treatment above and beyond a routine chiropractic visit and requires supervision of trained skilled staff, the cost is separate from our routine fees. Since some insurance plans may have these benefits, we are happy to get that information for you and discuss your individual co-pays and deductible. If there are no insurance benefits for this treatment, you will qualify for our DISCOUNTED CASH fee. The cash fee is $50/visit for a minimum of a 10-20 visit protocol. We also have package plans available.
We expect to see results with spinal decompression over time and with consistency of care. We request you commit to the entire length of care that is recommended.
How to be scheduled for Spinal Decompression/Traction Therapy?
Simply call our office at 949-380-7215 to schedule a complementary consultation to review your individual needs.
Iris Rosenfeld, DC
Rosenfeld Wellness Center
25255 Cabot Rd Ste 110
Laguna Hills, Ca 92653
