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Questions and Answers about Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

Q: What is Spinal Decompression Therapy, and how does it work?

A: Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is a spinal disc rehabilitation program that uses FDA cleared medical technology that gently stretches the spine and decompresses the discs. This technique of spinal decompression therapy, that is, unloading due to distraction and positioning, has shown the ability to gently separate the vertebrae from each other, creating a vacuum inside the discs that we are targeting. This "vacuum effect" is also known as negative intradiscal pressure.

The negative pressure can induce the retraction of the herniated or bulging disc into the inside of the disc, and off the nerve root, the thecal sac, or both. It happens only microscopically each time, but cumulatively, over four to six weeks, the results are quite dramatic.

The cycles of decompression and partial relaxation over a series of visits, promotes the diffusion of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids from the outside of the discs to the inside. These nutrients enable the torn and degenerated disc fibers to begin to heal.

Patients are treated fully clothed and are fitted with a pelvic harness that fits around their pelvis as well as a thoracic harness as they lie face down or face up on a computerized controlled table. The doctor operates the table from a computerized console. Each treatment takes about 20 to 45 minutes. Most patients find the sessions to be comfortable, and relief of pain can sometimes be noticed in the first few sessions. Of course, this varies depending on the individual condition.


Q: Will Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression help a slipped disc?

A: A "bulging" or "herniated" disc is sometimes incorrectly referred to as a "slipped" disc. Studies demonstrate that Spinal Decompression Therapy succeeds at treating bulging or herniated discs over 70% of the time. This of course varies depending on the complexity of the injury and other factors. Many times patients are able to avoid more costly and invasive procedures.


Q: How much does the therapy cost?

A: That depends on many factors, as there are many variations of disc injury and severity. The great news is that it can be very affordable. We are dedicated to making this safe, breakthrough therapy available to all patients, providing stress-free payment plans.


Q: Will my insurance cover it?

A: There are many insurance plans, all with different benefits. Some plans cover the costs of associated procedures. We will certainly be glad to help you verify all of your insurance benefits when you come into the office for a consultation.


Q: Are there any reasons that I can't go on this type of therapy?

A: The doctor has to determine if you are a candidate as there are certain conditions for which this therapy would be contraindicated The doctors perform a screening process and only then accept the cases they think this therapy can help the most.

Certain people are not candidates for spinal decompression therapy and usually have conditions such as:

  • Tumors
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurism
  • Fractures
  • Metal Implants/Screws/Plates in spine
  • Advanced Osteoporosis
  • Pregnancy or
  • Certain conditions (diseases) that compromise the structural integrity of the spine and discs. These conditions are present in only a small percentage of the population.

Q: How long does the treatment last?

A: Generally speaking the therapy lasts about 45 minutes per session, with most cases lasting 4 to 6 weeks in duration.