decompression therapy
HOW DOES DECOMPRESSION THERAPY WORK?
Disc decompression therapy is a revolutionary non-surgical treatment for low back pain and disc herniations. It is safe. It is comfortable. It is effective.
Disc decompression works by restoring proper function to an injured disc. This is done by producing a controlled, mechanical traction on the spine using the Triton DTS Decompression Table. During the "pull" injured discs are gently stretched apart, producing a suction force inside the disc. This draws disc buldges and herniations back into the center of the disc along with oxygen, water, nutrients, and other healing substances. The end result is a strong, healthy, properly functioning disc in about 84% of the patients.
Disc decompression is a lot like disc rehabilitation. Not only does decompression minimize disc bulges and herniations, but it also restores the proper nutrient supply to the disc. This allows the disc to regain its proper motion, and essentially proper nutrient supply. If the decompression is successful, the disc remains healthy even after the decompression treatment is finished.
DISC HERNIATION
There are several forms of disc problems that can cause spinal pain. The most common is called a disc herniation. This occurs when the center of the disc erupts (or "herniates") through the outer rings of the disc. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots causing spinal pain, neck pain, low back pain, or radiating pain down the arms and legs. Disc herniations aren't the only problems caused by discs.
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All forms of disc problems are classified as "disc degeneration."
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Stage 1: This degenerative process usually begins when a disc loses its normal motion. This causes the disc to lose hydration and water content. This is sometimes refered to as a "thin disc" or "dessicated disc" and is best diagnosed with an MRI. This will often cause persistent central low back pain.
Stage 2: Left uncorrected, over time the disc will lose strength and the outer rings begin to tear. This is when disc bulges and/or herniations commonly occur. Pain levels can be quite severe, and can even radiate down the arms or legs depending on the herniation.
Stage 3: After years of improper disc health, bone spurs begin to form and the degenerated disc is now accompanied by arthritis. Remember, this entire process started with improper motion.
TREATMENT AND COST
The course of therapy varies from person to person, but most patients will require 10-20 sessions over a 3-4 week period. The treatment sessions are brief, lasting about 20 minutes. Disc decompression is most effective when combined with chiropractic adjustments, ice, and muscle stimulation, all of which are performed in our office and coordinated with your decompression therapy. The response time is usually swift due to the timeliness of treatment.
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The cost for this procedure varies based on the patient's response and insurance coverage. As a good measure, the cost for the 3 week period is usually between $300-$400, however co-payments may mean substantially less out of pocket expense. In the case of no insurance coverage, various payment plans are available which makes this treatment affordable for most people. These prices do not include additional services that may be necessary, such as x-rays. Exact costs are unable to determine prior to evaluation. Please call our office for more information.