Non-Invasive Treatment For Back And Neck Pain

Spinal Decompression Therapy consists of a non-invasive therapy that is a relief for back pain and pain in relation to spinal disc injuries. Spinal Decompression Treatment provides gentle decompression of the disc through the use of a decompression table.

Restore vs. Repair

The methodology is the patient is strapped to a computer controlled table that moves and stretches the patient in small increments so as to gently pull apart the spine to relieve pressure from the intervetebral discs. The theory is that when a damaged disc is compressed and under constant pressure, the disc is unable to receive normal nutrient flow as the blood vessels are restricted. This situation perpetuates the worsening in deterioration of the disc. While the disc is compressed it cannot receive normal nutrient flow, and the disc will harden, which in turn causes it to receive even less nutrient flow.

This ongoing cycle inevitably leads to complete destruction of the disc. The decompression table is a two level table that places the patient in a face down position while grasping two handles at the table's head, this allows them to let go of the handles to stop the stretching if it becomes painful. The patient is strapped to the lower section of the table by a fastener around the pelvic girdle, and the lower section of the table moves away thereby pulling the patient from the waist, and therefore gently pulls the spine to separate the vertebrae to allow the disc to be relieved of the pressure and allow restoration of circulation to the intervertebral discs.

This process is repeated over and over in small increments, and eventually is believed to restore the disc to a more normal condition. These devices supposedly provide relief, but no amount of traction will "cure" a herniated disc, only surgery can repair a herniated disc. One type of these tables is called the VAX-D Therapeutic Table. With FDA approval as a traction device the VAX-D Therapeutic Table has merit as a treatment, but it is not legal to claim a correction of a herniated disc can be had by the therapy.

Inversion tables

There are several similar table type decompression devices under different names but they all function similarly. There are also manual devices to accomplish this with affordable home versions called inversion tables that operate on this same principle. With the inversion table, the back pain sufferers strap themselves onto the table and then are placed in an inverted position where gravity does the work of pulling the spine.

Users of this type of device should not use it while alone, but rather should have someone nearby to watch them and to assist them in righting themselves, especially if their condition is advanced as it may be difficult for them to right themselves. It is recommended to do this for 5-10 minutes three times per week. Prolonged inversion can be dangerous as the heart must work harder to pump blood in this position and elevates blood pressure. The elevated pressure can be very bad if the person suffers from high blood pressure, also blood may pool in the lungs and brain and put the brain at risk for hemorrhage.

Do not add to the problem

This treatment, like chiropractic treatment, is still under much controversy. It has its proponents and its opponents. But it must have its advantages or its use would not continue. So much like other treatments it may or may not help you find relief. The decompression table treatments are expensive and some insurance carriers will not cover the cost. If you wish to try this type of treatment but do not have insurance or cannot afford to pay out of pocket then a home inversion table may be an option as these range from $150-$400, but use with caution and progress slowly and be patient to see if there are positive results. If you try to rush it you may do further damage.

These methods, as with chiropractic may yield results for you and may be used in conjunction with physical therapy and exercise. Depending on the severity of your condition use caution, with exercise as well in order not to do further damage. You may want to consult your regular physician before beginning an exercise regimen.