Frequently Asked Questions
What is Non Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Answer: Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is one of the fastest growing treatments in response to the public’s desperate need for a non-surgical spinal solution to severe and life-changing back problems. As opposed to traction, which can increase intradiscal pressure and therefore aggravate a protruded, herniated, bulging, and/or extruded disc, spinal decompression has been shown to lower intradiscal pressure by applying axial decompression to the disc level using a logarithmic time force curve bypassing the muscle guarding reflex, thus reducing the disc pressure towards a negative level (American Chiropractor, March 2008). By doing this, it is believed that the disc lesion irritating the nerve root is pulled off the nerve, thus reducing nerve irritation and the pain and muscle spasm that’s responding to the sharp, knife-like nerve irritation to begin with.
I had back surgery, but am still in pain, can I still do non-surgical spinal decompression?
Answer: In most cases, the answer is “No”. Non-Surgical Spinal decompression is considered, in our opinion, the most aggressive conservative treatment available to help rehabilitate the disc and should be considered as an option before electing surgery if appropriate. In addition, having had hip surgery could also preclude you from doing Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression. Our office offers a wide variety of treatments and in most cases can offer you an alternative treatment if you don’t qualify for non-surgical spinal decompression.Q. Do I need an MRI? A: Yes. We prefer an MRI no older than 12 months to have the most accurate information regarding your condition. If you do not have one, we can do an exam on you and write you a script for an MRI if the exam suggests doing so.
Can Non Surgical Decompression be done on the neck and the lower back? If so can both areas be treated at the same time?
Answer: Yes we offer decompression to both the neck and the lower back, but we do not treat both areas
Can I do this treatment if I was injured in a car accident?
Answer: Yes. As long as you have an attorney and or Medical Payment on your auto policy we will accept the case and offer you decompression treatment as long as the doctor determines that this treatment is needed for your condition.
Does insurance cover the treatment for Non Surgical Spinal Decompression?
Answer: Depending on the carrier, insurance can cover the total cost. In some situations, insurance will only cover portions of associated procedures. We will be happy to assist you in learning your benefits and making the experience as easy as possible for you. If approved, a personal injury case can be covered for decompression treatment as well as a person who has MedPay benefits. Work Comp will usually cover decompression therapy as well.es. As long as you have an attorney and or Medical Payment on your auto policy we will accept the case and offer you decompression treatment as long as the doctor determines that this treatment is needed for your condition.
Do you have payment plans?
Answer: Yes. If you find yourself without any coverage, we can offer you Care Credit.
How long does treatment last?
Answer: Treatment can last, depending on the case, anywhere from 30-45 minutes and go on for 10 to 16 weeks.
Do I need a referral to come in?
Answer: No. The doctors at our office are qualified to answer all your questions and make recommendations if you are a candidate or not for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression.
What kind of system do you use?
Answer: We offer the DRX9000
Are there any reasons that I can’t go on this type of therapy?
Answer: The doctor has to determine if you are a candidate as there are certain conditions for which this therapy would be contraindicated The doctors perform a screening process and only then accept the cases they think this therapy can help the most. Certain people are not candidates for spinal decompression therapy and usually have conditions such as:
- Tumors
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
- Fractures
- Hip, Back and or Neck Surgery
- Metal Implants/Screws/Plates in the spine
- Advanced Osteoporosis
- Pregnancy or
- Certain conditions (diseases) that compromise the structural integrity of the spine and discs. These conditions are present in only a small percentage of the population.
