What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy using FDA cleared equipment has shown from 70-90% success rate dependant on the type of cases being studied. Single level contained herniations showed the greatest effective rate...even after failed surgery. Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical, traction therapy for the relief of back and leg pain or neck and arm pain. During this procedure, by cycling through distraction and relaxation phases and by proper positioning, a spinal disc may be isolated and placed under lowered pressure--possibly even negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it.

What can this vacuum effect do?

The vacuum effect accomplishes two things. From a mechanical standpoint, disc material that has protruded or herniated outside the normal confines of the disc may be pulled back within the disc by the vacuum created within the disc. Also, the vacuum within the disc stimulates growth of blood supply, secondarily stimulating a healing response. This results in pain reduction and proper healing at the injured site.

What machine is used for this purpose?

There are a number of spinal decompression systems presently used in the United States. After significant research, Texas Back and Neck Care Center chose the Triton DTS system manufactured by Chattanooga, Inc., the premier manufacturer of physical medicine equipment. This table can be used for the neck and low back, and the patient can be positioned either face up, down, or sideways, and be angled to allow the greatest patient comfort and results--a huge distinction from other tables. If you had a posterior herniation and another patient had an anterior herniation you would obviously need to be positioned differently. Don't be fooled by the marketing of other manufacturers. The studies they provide excluded everyone except those patients that could lay down in the position that their table allowed?

Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Different from Regular Traction?

Dramatically, Yes! The DTS computer is the key. Typical forms of traction causes a muscle reaction, allowing them to contract during treatment. Decompression therapy allows the muscles to actually relax while the traction occurs, which is the key element in allowing discs and facets to heal--something they may never do on their own. I've actually watched patients hooked up with an EMG to monitor their spinal muscle activity during treatment and was amazed to see the muscles completely relaxed!

 What should I expect to Feel?

In almost all cases the treatments are completely painless. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the Decompression session. The first rule of Decompression is to ensure the comfort of the patient.

Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is not indicated?

Yes. Spinal decompression therapy is usually not recommended for pregnant women, patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage. Spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws, metal plates or “cages”) is also contraindicated. However, spinal decompression therapy after bone fusion or non-fusion surgery, can be performed. This means a majority of post-surgical failures are still good candidates for treatment!

How often do I take treatment sessions? How long does each session last?

The specific treatment plan is determined by the Doctor after your examination and evaluation. Most of the research has shown best results have been achieved utilizing a protocol of 20 sessions over a 4-6 week period, but many of our patients recieve maximum benefit in as few as 8-12 visits due to proper evaluation, table placement, and advanced treatment protocols. A typical session of spinal decompression therapy takes about 30 minutes or less.

Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Anyone who has back pain or neck pain caused in whole or in part by a damaged disc, degenerate discs or facet syndrome is a potential candidate, but we have actual hands-on evaluations to determine if Decompression is likely to help. Not everyone qualifies, and we will only advise Decompression treatments if your evaluation results are positive.

Do Most Patients Also Receive Therapy and Rehabilitative Exercises in Addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?

We do not have a canned plan for everyone. Each person is evaluated individually to accomodate thier particular needs. We have many treatments available, some which may help, some not. We let your response to care be the main determining factor to what services you recieve. To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures may be treated initially with passive therapies and chiropractic adjustments (as indicated.) As improvement occurs, active rehabilitation is implemented in order to strengthen the spinal musculature. We actually do an evaluation and customize specific exercises for YOUR mechanics, not generic exercises. You will only do these in our office until your are comfortable you are doing them correctly, then switch to home exercises.

How can I be scheduled for Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Simply call our office To Schedule a Free Consultation.

Ask for Dr. Allen personally.214-227-5155