Can Spinal Decompression Treatments Help My Back Pain?

Exactly what Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal Decompression Therapy is an FDA approved spinal disc rehabilitation method to gently stretch the spine and decompress the discs. This mechanical decompression works by slowly and gently stretching the spine, which takes the pressure off compressed discs and vertebrae.

Cycles of decompression and partial relaxation are used in the therapy over a series of visits. Over time, this enhances the diffusion of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids from the outside of the discs to the inside. This in turn enables torn and degenerated disc fibers to begin to heal.

Traditional traction of the "static" type has been use for some time. That means that steady pressure is applied and then released. Though that can help, the difficulty is that there can be side effects such as muscular spasms.

Powered Intermittent Traction

The primary difference between static traction and this newer therapy is that the pressure applied is intermittent, in other words it is put on then subsequently released in cycles. This prevents the potential for muscle spasms and enables nutrients to be flushed into your discs.

This means that if you have a herniated disc, for instance, fluid can be drawn back into the disc, thereby reversing the cause of the pain to a certain extent.

Exactly how Much Does It Cost And What Are The Effects?

As with most back therapies it depends on the individual. You should expect to pay between $35 and $100 per session but you will require a number of treatments, normally anywhere from 20 to 50 sessions. Many people have reported quick benefits, while others have needed 20 sessions or more to experience a reduction in pain. Some of the patients have not gotten any benefit from the therapy at all.

There is Still Controversy

Although backbone decompression apparatuses are FDA authorized, presently there remains little clinical data that this remedy in fact succeeds. Studies have been few and far between and have displayed little to absolutely no actual measured advantage. A number of providers of spinal decompression therapy have even been pursued in the courts for making unsubstantiated claims.

As a result, few insurance companies are ready to pay for this therapy. In spite of that, these machines are starting to be extremely popular inside the workplaces of chiropractors and other back professionals. A number of individuals are actually purchasing their own at a cost of several thousand dollars.