What causes low back pain?
Low back pain can result from many factors, including injuries and the natural effects of aging. The spinal cord is protected by vertebrae, which are cushioned by discs that act as shock absorbers. These discs can degenerate over time due to wear and tear, or herniate (bulge), pressing on surrounding nerves and causing pain or numbness.
If I undergo Spinal Decompression treatment, how long does it take to see results?
Many patients notice pain relief after just a few sessions. Significant improvement is often reported by the second week of treatment.
How long does it take to complete Spinal Decompression treatment?
A typical treatment plan includes:
- First 2 weeks: Daily sessions, 30–45 minutes each
- Next 2 weeks: Three sessions per week
- Final 2 weeks: Two sessions per week
Do I qualify for Spinal Decompression treatment?
Not everyone is a candidate. Proper evaluation is necessary to ensure the best outcome.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Herniated or bulging lumbar discs causing pain for more than 4 weeks
- Recurring pain after failed back surgery (over 6 months old)
- Persistent pain from degenerative discs unresponsive to 4 weeks of therapy
- Patients available for a full 4-week protocol
- Age 18 or older
Exclusion Criteria:
- Spinal hardware such as rods or pedicle screws
- Pregnancy
- Lumbar fusion surgery within the past 6 months
- Metastatic cancer
- Severe osteoporosis
- Unstable spondylolisthesis
- Recent compression fracture below L1
- Pars defect
- Abdominal or pelvic cancer
- Pathologic aortic aneurysm
- Disc space infections
- Severe peripheral neuropathy
- Hemiplegia, paraplegia, or cognitive dysfunction
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
Most patients do not experience side effects. In some cases, mild and temporary muscle spasms may occur.
How does Spinal Decompression separate each vertebra and allow for decompression at a specific level?
Decompression is achieved through precise spinal positioning and controlled force. The system uses a logarithmic curve to apply gentle pulling forces, which avoids triggering the body’s protective reflexes. This allows decompression to occur at the targeted spinal level.
Is there any risk to the patient during treatment on Spinal Decompression?
No. The treatment is safe and comfortable. Both the patient and operator have access to emergency stop switches, which immediately end the session if needed.
How does Spinal Decompression differ from ordinary spinal traction?
While traction can relieve some symptoms, it does not correct the underlying issue. Spinal Decompression creates a negative pressure within the disc, drawing herniations inward and restoring blood flow and nutrients. This process promotes natural healing and disc rehydration. Unlike traction, which often triggers muscle spasms, decompression lowers intradiscal pressure to between -150 and -200 mmHg, providing superior clinical results.
Can Spinal Decompression be used for patients who have had spinal surgery?
Yes, in most cases. Many patients with failed back surgeries have found relief through Spinal Decompression.
Who is not a candidate for Spinal Decompression therapy?
Patients with recent spinal fractures, surgical fusions with hardware, repaired aneurysms, spinal infections, or moderate to severe osteoporosis are not suitable candidates.
Who is a candidate for Spinal Decompression?
- Patients advised to undergo surgery but wishing to avoid it
- Patients told no further options are available
- Patients who did not respond well to conservative treatments (medications, therapy, injections, chiropractic care, acupuncture)
- Patients who still experience pain but want an alternative treatment option