What is Decompression Therapy?
Decompression Therapy is a non surgical alternative for herniated and/or bulging discs. The treatment consists of a protocol that requires you to lay on a table while it pulls ( distracts the vertebrae). This, when done correctly creates a vacuum phenomenon that helps bring the herniated disc matter back to its original state. It will not completely reverse or correct the problem, but if the disc goes back enough to reduce pressure off of the nerve root, then pain can go away. People have tried methods like this for years unsuccessfully because inversion and straight traction will cause the muscle to go into spasm. This prevents any improvement. The DTS system uses a computer program to override the body' natural defense and actually reduce the herniation.
Will Decompression Therapy treatments hurt? Is it safe?
DTS 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 stretching on
their back or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions.
Our decompression machine, the DTS System is produced by the world’s largest manufacturer of
hospital based rehabilitation equipment, Chatanooga, with over 58 years of
experience.
Is Decompression Therapy new?
Although traction therapy has been around for thousands of years, decompression traction is relatively new. Advances in equipment and
procedures have dramatically improved effectiveness. Decompression Therapy is
the most comprehensive program available, allowing the safe delivery of
this previously hospital based therapy in our office. Continual
improvements in the delivery system and regular updates in protocol
keep the Decompression Therapy in the forefront of non-invasive disc therapy. Each year
over 50,000 patients are treated with Decompression Therapy and that number is
growing.
Why is Decompression Therapy more successful than other treatment options?
DTS 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 traction to
the site, rehabilitation to the supporting structures, and overall
strengthening of global musculature makes the treatment unique. Decompression therapy affects the disc as directly as possible without 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 decompression therapy. Heat, muscle
stimulation, Ultrasound, and cold laser therapy 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. A gradual breakdown of the foundational support of your back 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, (DTS Therapy,
adjustments, Graston Technique, muscle stimulation, ultrasound,
massage, etc.). However, we promise to only do those
procedures necessary for your fullest recovery. 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 Decompression Therapy help my pain?
Though each patient is different and no doctor can guarantee success,
the clinical results of this type of therapy have been effective in
over 80% of patients treated. Common problems too many back conditions
are damaged discs and poor spinal muscle control. Our treatment
program addresses both of these core problems. The DTS System creates
a controlled unloading of the vertebra 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 DTS Therapy that include specific controlled
exercises.