What is
Spinal Decompression Therapy?

To answer the question, we must first look at what is going on. You have probably heard of a disc herniation. The disc actually acts as a cushion or "shock absorber" between the vertebrae in your spine. This helps provide the mobility we have in our spine. We are able to have range of motion due to the vertebrae and discs working together. This disc is encased in a jelly-like substance that acts like a cushion for the spine. The disc can bulge or protrude due to a trauma such as a lifting injury, car accident or repetitive small traumas due to lifting incorrectly. The disc can actual become herniated which means that the disc may or may not be contained.

If injury to the disc occurs, it can cause pain from the disc itself, (discogenic pain) or from the disc herniation applying pressure to the spinal nerve root (radiculopathy). Either of these symptoms can cause moderate to high levels of pain in your neck or back and might extend into the arms or legs.

So how do we fix it?

Until recently there were a few options. One option is surgery, which is invasive but works in some cases. Another is Physical therapy, which involves exercises and therapies to help reduce pain. Finally, there is Chiropractic therapy, which is similar to Physical Therapy but adds a spinal adjustment in order to align the spine correctly. Medications can also be used to reduce pain and/or inflammation but benefits are generally temporary. The last option is often to just deal with the pain. These have been the ways many have addressed disc issues in the past.

Fortunately, researchers have discovered another form of treatment. It is called spinal traction that actually causes decompression to the disc. The concept behind this form of treatment it that pressure on the disc causes the disc to bulge out so that if we can cause the exact opposite type of pressure we should be able to decrease the herniation/bulge. New machines that are FDA cleared are designed to pull the vertebrae gently apart and hold; creating a vacuum type effect that allows the disc to return to its original shape. The disc may not completely be normal again, but if the herniation will decrease enough to take pressure off of the disc then the pain will go away.

Will this be the same as hanging upside down?

No. While hanging upside may temporarily relieve pressure to the spine - it is not the same as decompression therapy. In most cases, muscle guarding will prevent any change in the disc herniation. The muscles must relax in order for the vacuum effect to occur. The Chattanooga DTS traction machine is able to do this with a computer that actually ramps the pull patterns up and down in order to prevent muscle guarding. This cannot be done just from a direct pull or hanging upside down.

What Are The Treatments Like?

After lying on the comfortable spinal decompression bed, you will be fitted with an automatic shoulder support system. The automatic shoulder support system helps to stabilize your upper body. The advanced computer system automatically adjusts to the proper angle of distraction; and an air bladder system acts as a fulcrum to the angle of pull, allowing us to target specific discs that are causing your pain and symptoms. The distractive forces utilize a logarithmic curve to avoid proprioceptor response, which would create muscle spasm. The split table design decreases friction and allows separation of the vertebra, minimizing the effect of gravity.

Basically, you lay down and the spinal decompression computer simulates an anti-gravity effect on your back that helps herniated material return to its normal position and stop the pain. Patients describe the treatment as gentle, painless, intermittent pulling of your back. Many patients actually fall asleep during treatment!

How Long Are Treatments And How Many Do You Need?

Patients typically undergo approximately 20 treatment sessions - varied by each individual's recovery time. Each treatment lasts between 15-30 minutes. Each individual case's needs are determined by thorough periodic evaluations. Chiropractic might be included in your treatment that can also include muscle stimulation, ice/heat and chiropractic adjustments. The treatments generally cause no discomfort.

Will this work for me?

Clinical studies indicate it has been successful in treating: Herniated or bulging disc(s) Degenerative disc disease Facet syndrome Sciatica Post-surgical patients Spinal Stenosis Although we cannot guarantee any results, clinical studies have shown that 86% of participants in a recent study had positive results (see Research Studies below). Patients in our office are seeing the same positive results. And although chiropractic care does not have to be incorporated in Spinal Decompression therapy, it might be recommended in your case to increase the likelihood of a desired response.

Is Spinal Decompression recommended for everyone?

No. Spinal Decompression is not recommended for people with:

• Cancer
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Hiatus or Abdominal Hernia
• Pregnancy (lumbar traction only)
• Vertebral Artery Occlusion (cervical traction only)
• Aortic Aneurysm
• Post Surgical Patients who had cages installed

We will discuss any concerns prior to beginning your therapy.

Does insurance cover Spinal Decompression?

No. Insurance does not cover Spinal Decompression. Insurance will generally cover some portion of chiropractic care if indicated and recommended.

How much does it cost?

Spinal decompression cost $75 a visit, which is purchased in packages that are designed to benefit your situation. Twenty visits are generally recommended which would put the total at $1500 - significantly less than our competitors. Other offices charge up to $200 a visit which could put your total bill at $5000-$6000 for treatment. If chiropractic care is chosen then the fees will be billed separately to you or your insurance company.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. We offer Care Credit, which allows you to finance your care and make affordable payments. You can apply directly online at www.carecredit.com. You can also come into our office and one of our staff will be happy to assist you.

Where do I begin?

Call us today at 512-257-2225 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Tuggle to see if you are a candidate for DTS therapy. If you are a candidate than we will perform an exam and tell you what exactly we feel will benefit you the most. Call today and inquire about our special.

Research Studies:

• Decompression, Reduction, and Stabilization of the Lumbar Spine: A Cost-Effective Treatment for Lumbosacral Pain
• Spinal Decompression
• The Effects of Vertebral Axial Decompression On Sensory Nerve Dysfunction in Patients with Low back Pain and Radiculopathy