Office Hours Directions
_____________________________________________________________________________________ Neck and Back Pain Sufferers Wanted! _____________________________________________________________________________________
Spinal Decompression Therapy
DTS Introduction
More Information About DTS
DTS Patient Testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical, comfortable traction therapy for the relief of back and leg pain or neck and arm pain. During this procedure, by cycling through distraction and relaxation phases and by proper positioning, a spinal disc can be isolated and placed under negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it. | |
| How does this negative pressure affect an injured disc? | |
During spinal decompression therapy, a negative pressure is created within the disc. Because of that negative pressure, disc material that has protruded or herniated can be pulled back within the normal confines of the disc, and permit healing to occur.
|
|
| What machine is used for this purpose? | |
There are a number of spinal decompression machines presently used in the United States and Canada. After significant research, Dr. Mike has chosen to use the Triton DTS machine manufactured by Chattanooga, Inc., the premier manufacturer of physical therapy machines. DTS machine has established research and results. |
|
| Are there medical studies that document the effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| Yes! One study using MRI showed up to 90% reduction of disc herniations in 10 of 14 cases and other studies reported that the majority patients with ruptured discs achieved "good" to "excellent" results after spinal decompression therapy. In general, several studies have demonstrated that 70 to 86% of patients report good to excellent relief of their symptoms. | |
| Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| Spinal decompression therapy is designed to unload the spinal disc. Any back pain or neck pain caused in whole or in part by a damaged disc may be helped by spinal decompression therapy. These conditions include herniated, protruding or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica or radiculopathy (pinched nerves). | |
| How is Spinal Decompression Therapy different from regular traction? | |
| The DTS System controls the variations in the traction pull allowing for spinal decompression and eliminating muscle guarding that is typical in conventional traction devices. The pre-programmed patterns for ramping up and down the amount of axial distraction allows for higher levels of spinal decompression and disc re-hydration. | |
| Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression is not indicated?; | |
| Spinal decompression therapy is usually not recommended for pregnant women, or patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage. However, every patient is evaluated on an individual basis. Spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws and metal plates or "cages") is also contraindicated. Surgery to the discs without fusion or fusion using bony replacement is not contraindicated. | |
| How often do I take treatment sessions? How long does each session last? | |
| Each decompression therapy session takes about 20-30 minutes. Spinal decompression is usually performed 3 times a week for 12-24 sessions. | |
| What are the results of Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| Several studies have shown "70 to 86% of patients report good to excellent relief of their symptoms!" | |
| I have had spinal surgery, but continue to have pain. Can I try this procedure? | |
Spinal decompression therapy can help people with back pain after failed spinal surgery. It can be performed in most patients who have not been left with instrumentation or an unstable spine after surgery.
|
|
| Do patients receive therapy and rehabilitative exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures maybe treated with passive therapies (ice/heat/laser therapy), chiropractic adjustments (as indicated) and/or active rehabilitation in order to strengthen the spinal musculature. | |
| How can I get started on Spinal Decompression Therapy? | |
| Simply call the office at 905-477-6578 and tell the receptionist that you are interested in decompression therapy. An initial consultation and examination will be scheduled and performed allowing us to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. | |
| How much does Spinal Decompression Therapy cost? | |
| Sessions range from $65 to $95 depending on the individual patient needs and requirements. Average cost for Spinal Decompression Therapy can be much higher as seen at other clinics. We also provide re-examinations to closely monitor results. Also, a comprehensive customized spinal rehabilitation approach is provided at WFFC and for home. Please note that many insurance companies consider this treatment as investigational and therefore do not cover this treatment as part of their policy. You will need to check with your insurance company to see if they offer coverage for this treatment. |