Frequently Asked Questions about Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression traction 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.

The vacuum effect accomplishes two things. From a mechanical standpoint, disc material that has protruded or herniated outside the normal confines of the disc can be pulled back within the disc by the vacuum created within the disc. Also, the vacuum within the disc stimulates in growth of blood supply, secondarily stimulating a healing response. This results in pain reduction and proper healing at the injured site.

There are a number of spinal decompression machines presently used in the United States. After significant research, Warren Chiropractic Center has chosen to use the Triton DTS machine manufactured by Chattanooga, Inc., the premier manufacturer of physical therapy machines.

Spinal decompression traction 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 traction therapy. These conditions include herniated, protruding or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica or radiculopathy (pinched nerves).

Spinal decompression traction therapy is usually not recommended for pregnant women, or patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage. Every patient is evaluated on an individual basis.

Each session usually includes decompression traction therapy and spinal stabilization exercises and takes about 1 hour. Spinal decompression is usually performed 3-5 times a week for 12-20 sessions.

Over 80% of patients have good pain relief. This success rate is similar to surgical results.

After a complimentary initial consultation, we can give you the specific answers you have regarding your insurance. While some practitioners may tell you that it is, this is usually not correct. Most major insurance carriers have specifically stated that spinal decompression traction is not a covered benefit. Our prices are very affordable and we have a number of payment options to fit your needs. The accompanying physical therapy and spinal stabilization exercise program is often a covered procedure. Your medical insurance may have constraints with regards to co-payments and prior authorization for therapy. We will file your insurance for you.

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 an unstable spine after surgery.