FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 
Will Spinal Decompression Therapy treatments hurt?  Is it safe?
Spinal Decompression Therapy treatments are one of the most gentle and comfortable therapies available.  The treatments utilize equipment with proven safety and efficacy.  Most patients report a mild sense of stretch on their back or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions.  Learn more about Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Is Spinal Decompression Therapy new?
Although traction therapy has been around for thousands of years, spinal decompression is relatively new.  Advances in equipment and procedures have dramatically improved effectiveness.  Spinal Decompression Therapy is the most comprehensive program available, allowing the safe delivery of this previously hospital based therapy in our office.    Each year over 50,000 patients are treated with Spinal Decompression Therapy and that number is growing.

Why is Spinal Decompression Therapy more successful than other treatment options?
Spinal Decompression Therapy is a comprehensive program of the newest traction techniques and targeted “core” stabilization exercises.  In addition, we use other adjunctive treatments that have proven effectiveness in back care.  It is this multi-faceted approach that makes the overall treatment so effective.  Additionally, discs have been shown to be a predominate site of pain, so treating it as directly as possible makes sense.  The blending of focused decompression to the site, rehabilitation to the supporting structures, and overall strengthening of global musculature makes the treatment unique.  Spinal Decompression Therapy affects the disc as directly as possible without dangerous surgery.

Why the need for exercises and other therapies?
Along with the damage in the disc we also need to treat the supporting spinal muscles.  A complete program targeting the function of the stabilization muscles is a vital part of Spinal Decompression Therapy.  Heat, muscle stimulation, Ultrasound, and Active Release Techniques can offer an additional benefit for inflammation and spasm reduction.  Our hope is not only to help heal the disc but enhance muscle control and support of the low back or neck.  A gradual breakdown of the foundational support of your back  or neck is what puts undue stresses on the discs and leads to pain and loss of function.  Exercise and adjunctive therapies will assist in rehabilitating these structures.

Will my pain go away for good?
Although it is difficult to predict the future, our experience is that most patients do find long-term relief or effective management of their pain when they complete the entire program of treatments.  Regular home exercise and periodic visits to our clinic will help in maintaining your spinal health and reduce the probability of reoccurrence.  As with any comprehensive rehabilitation program your continued home care exercises and discretion in some daily activities is key to long-term relief.

How much will it cost?
Our office visits vary as to the extent of care needed. Insurances will cover adjunctive therapies such as rehabilitation,  adjustments,  muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and Active Release Techniques.  We accept all major health insurances.  You always have the choice as to the extent of care.  Our staff will review all costs, payment options and insurance coverage up front.  We want to help, and believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of you and good health.

Can Spinal Decompression Therapy help my pain?
Though each patient is different and no doctor can guarantee success, our office is seeing great results from spinal decompression therapy.  Common problems too many back conditions are damaged discs and poor spinal muscle control.  Our treatment program addresses both of these core problems.  The Spinal Decompression Therapy creates a controlled decompression of the vertebral discs to decrease disc pressure thus increasing blood and nutrient exchange.  This exchange of fluids is something the damaged disc desperately needs to help it heal from the inside out.  Muscle strength, control and endurance can all be improved with other facets of Spinal Decompression Therapy that include specific controlled exercises.

How long will my treatment program be?
It depends on the complexity and extent of the rehabilitation needed; however, we typically treat 3 times a week for 1 month, transitioning from passive to active treatments as you respond.  The treatment is administered over a reasonable time frame and your response is continually evaluated.  Further treatments may be necessary or a reduced frequency may be recommended at that time.  The rehabilitative phase may include additional Spinal Decompression treatments, with spinal adjustments to enhance the results.  Most patients are released from treatments after 8 weeks.