Decompression FAQs

In simple terms what is Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is a form of therapy that uses gentle stretching of specific areas of the spine that separates the vertebrae. This allows the disc to expand and relieves pressure on the surrounding nerves. The term “decompression” is widely used in medical terminology to describe a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on a nerve from a protruding disc, but it is also possible to decompress a disc without surgery through the use of specialized mechanical traction.

Is traction the same as decompression?

No. Traction is the process used to create decompression. By providing a gentle separation between the individual vertebra, traction causes an “unloading” of the spinal discs, allowing them to heal. Very advanced units, such as the DRX-9000 by Elite Electromedical are very complex, sophisticated machines that are able to deliver the maximum therapeutic benefit, while also maximizing comfort and safety.

Has decompression treatment proven to be effective?

Yes. In a number of clinical studies, lasting pain relief has been achieved in the vast majority of cases; even in cases where other forms of therapy were not effective. (See references)

Is spinal decompression safe? Can it make me worse?

This procedure is extremely safe and non-invasive. With a proper diagnosis and screening for contraindications, it is extremely unlikely to make your condition worse. All professional decompression equipment has safety features built in, such as an emergency stop button for both the patient and the operator.

How is the DRX-9000 able to isolate each vertebra allowing for decompression at a specific level?

By using a specific combination of lumbar positioning (angle) and by varying the degree and intensity of force, very specific therapeutic decompression can be accomplished. When needed, entire regions of the spine can be decompressed. The key to producing this decompression is the gentle logarithmic pull that is created by the DRX-9000.

Are the decompression treatment results permanent?

In addition to being highly effective, the DRX-9000 has an impressive long-term success rate in treating herniated and degenerative discs, with only 4% reoccurrence rate of pain after one year. Most often, additional treatments are not required after the completion of the initial treatment protocol. Certain cases will require treatment on a supportive or maintenance basis.

Does spinal decompression hurt?

No. In fact, most patients experience pain relief while on this equipment.

Do I have to take my clothes off?

No. Patients are fully clothed during spinal decompression. We do ask that patients not wear “slippery” clothing, such as lycra or silk. How long does a treatment take? Generally, for the lower back, each treatment takes about one hour—10 minutes of moist heat, followed by 30 minutes of decompression and, finally, 10 minutes of ice on the affected area. Electrical muscle stimulation may be applied during or after treatment as well. Cervical decompression treatments are of shorter duration.

How should I expect to feel following a treatment?

Some patients feel immediate relief, while others feel little or no change. Some people feel a slight soreness or stiffness, mostly due to the stretching of deep scar tissue that may have built up in the area over time. How many treatments will I need? This is evaluated on an individual basis, but generally 20- 30 treatments are necessary.

Can I exercise or play sports while having decompression treatments?

We recommend that you do not participate in any vigorous activity for at least the first two weeks of care. We provide our patients with a personal, one on one instruction and a DVD that outlines the stretches and exercises you should do after decompression treatment has been completed.

What about diet and nutritional supplements?

All patients are advised to stay away from caffeine and foods that contain a lot of sugar. These tend to overstimulate the nerves, which need just the opposite. Many patients need additional nutritional supplementation to help the disc and supporting ligaments heal and strengthen.

How does decompression differ from ordinary spinal traction?

Simple traction can be of minimal help with the treatment of some of the conditions resulting from herniation or degeneration. Traction cannot address the source of the problem the way the DRX-9000 can. The DRX-9000 has the ability to create a vacuum inside of the disc, which draws surrounding fluid into the disc itself. The vacuum also causes the disc to pull in the herniated section of the disc and stimulates the body’s natural fibroblastic response to heal the injury. Traction and inversion tables can only create a small fraction of the vacuum effect of the DRX-9000.

Can decompression be used for patients who have had spinal surgery?

In most cases this treatment is appropriate for use in patients who have had spinal surgery. In fact many patients have found success with these decompression units after a failed back or neck surgery. However, not all post-surgical cases can be treated with spinal decompression. Be sure to speak with your physician if you have any concern, as each post-surgical case must be evaluated individually.

Are there any conditions that would disqualify me from spinal decompression?

Yes. These include: cancer of the spine, severe osteoporosis, vertebral fusion, abdominal aortic aneurysm, recent abdominal surgery, recent neck surgery, and pregnancy and certain diseases, including meningitis and osteomyelitis.