What Is Disk Decompression Therapy?

Disc compression therapy uses a therapeutic table and traction to help reposition spinal discs, allowing for relief of pressure. This noninvasive and nonsurgical therapy helps alleviate the back, leg and arm pain associated with herniated discs, degenerative discs and posterior facet syndromes. Herniated discs are damaged spinal discs. Degenerative discs have broken down or erodes. Posterior facet syndromes is inflammation of the synovial lining of the facet joints in the vertebrae.

Features

• Disc decompression therapy is done in two phases. In the first, the pull phase, the discs in the spine are gently pulled apart or stretched by the mechanisms of the table. The pulling induces a vacuumlike effect that produces suction inside the discs and brings them back into position. During the second phase, nutrients such as water and oxygen are sucked into the vacuum. Nutrients normally circulate within a healthy spine, allowing for stronger and healthier discs. When discs are compressed because of slipped discs or damaged discs, the nutrients are blocked.

Time Frame

• You will start off with approximately three eight- to 12-minute sessions per week of decompression disc therapy. After each session, electrical muscle stimulation helps to relax the muscles and ligaments. The most effective results will be seen within eight to 15 sessions.

Benefits

• Disc compression therapy helps with pain related to herniated discs, degenerative discs, facet syndrome, sciatica, surgery and spinal stenosis, or hardening. According to the Johns Hopkins Clinic, the therapy repairs the annulus, nucleus, facet joint and foramina in the spine. The annulus is the strong band of fibers found around a disc. The nucleus is the soft center found within a disc. Facet joints connect the vertebrae. The foramina is a nerve that branches out from the spine. The therapy improves your mobility and reduces pain.

Considerations

• Disc compression therapy does not alleviate the pain of every neck or lower-back problem. The therapy has not shown to be effective with fractures, gross osteoporosis or tumors. Patients with these medical conditions should consult their doctors for alternatives.

Warning

• Disc compression therapy is not for everyone. Pregnant women should avoid it, as it could lead to a premature birth. Patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage should also not undergo disc compression therapy as it could lead to further damage. The therapy is not recommended if you are over 70 years old or have had spinal surgery involving screws or other types of metal.