Frequently Asked Questions & Answers:
What is Decompression Therapy?
Decompression therapy has a high success rate for healing bulged or herniated discs and worn joint spaces. It is completely non-surgical creating a negative pressure at the disc space allowing it to heal properly. Decompression utilizes motorized axial (head to toe) distraction of the lumbar or cervical spines and knee. The doctor uses a computerized program to set the proper unique cycle phases for each patient. Unlike surgery, there is no “down time” to recover or restrictions from working or other activities within reason.
How is Traction and Decompression different?
Decompression is different then traditional traction because it does not overstretch muscles and goes deeper into the disc & joint space by using a ramping method that helps reduce disc pressure. It is more relaxing for the patient by avoiding muscle spasm.
Who can benefit from Decompression?
Anyone with chronic back, neck or extremity pain due to damaged discs or bone on bone knees. Other problems including spinal stenosis, sciatica, leg or arm pain and numbness, pinched nerves, headaches, etc. Also find benefit from Decompression.
Are the sessions painful and how many are needed?
In almost all cases the treatments are painless. 24 treatment sessions, 2-3 times per week for 6-8 weeks are recommended based on current research, unless the doctor would recommend otherwise upon exam. Sessions last anywhere from 6-12 minutes depending on whether it is spinal, cervical or knee.
Are there conditions where spinal or knee decompression is NOT recommended?
The following are contraindications to decompression therapy: Spinal fractures, bone infections, severe osteoporosis, cancer of the bone or surgeries within first year including hardware such as screws, plates or cages, also new knee replacements within first year.
Are spinal adjustments or other therapies recommended along with decompression?
Yes, your regular scheduled chiropractic spinal adjustments are recommended during the treatment time along with ice or heat with tens at home as needed for inflammation.