There are several forms of disc problems that can cause spinal pain. The most common is called a disc herniation. This occurs when the center of the disc erupts (or .herniates.) through the outer rings of the disc. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots causing spinal pain, neck pain, low back pain, or radiating pain down the arms and legs. Disc herniations aren't the only problems caused by discs.

All forms of disc problems are classified as "disc degeneration".

Stage 1: This degenerative process usually begins when a disc loses its normal motion. This causes the disc to lose hydration and water content. This is sometimes refered to as a "thin disc" or "dessicated disc" and is best diagnosed with an MRI. This will often cause persistent central low back pain.

Stage 2: Left uncorrected, over time the disc will lose strength and the outer rings begin to tear. This is when disc bulges and/or herniations commonly occur. Pain levels can be quite severe, and can even radiate down the arms or legs depending on the herniation.

Stage 3: After years of improper disc health, bone spurs begin to form and the degenerated disc is now accompanied by arthritis. Remember, this entire process started with improper motion.

How Does Decompression Work?

Disc Decompression Therapy is a revolutionary non-surgical treatment for low back pain and disc herniations. It is safe. It is comfortable. It is effective. Check out the following pages to find out if Disc Decompression Therapy is right for you.

Disc decompression works by restoring proper function to an injured disc. This is done by producing a controlled, mechanical traction on the spine using the Triton DTS Distraction Table. During the .pull. injured discs are gently stretched apart, producing a suction force inside the disc. This draws disc buldges and herniations back into the center of the disc along with oxygen, water, nutrients, and other healing substances. The end result is a strong, healthy, properly functioning disc in about 84% of the patients.

Disc distraction is a lot like disc rehabilitation. Not only does distraction minimize disc bulges and herniations, but it also restores the proper nutrient supply to the disc. This allows the disc to regain its proper motion, and essentially proper nutrient supply. If the distraction is successful, the disc remains healthy even after the distraction treatment is finished.

Is it safe?
Yes. The decompression is produced by a FDA approved, computer-controlled device using forces that are usually about 50%-65% of the patient.s body weight, and therefore well within safe limits.

Is it painful?
No. Decompression force is always set within the patient.s pain tolerance. In fact, most patient.s comment that it .feels good.. There are cases where patients are sore after the treatment. This is usually temporary, and is a result of the necessary healing process. In the rare case that a patient is sore after treatment, this discomfort typically reduces with continued treatment and tissue healing.

Will it work?
Individual results vary based on the severity of each patient.s condition, however, decompression is effective in about 84% of patients.

How many times will I have to come?
Usually about 15 sessions are required to produce the desired results. Accomplishing the decompression in a relatively short period of time is important to appropriately heal the injured disc.

Do I need an MRI ?
Maybe. It varies case by case, but having an MRI is preferred. If you.ve already had an MRI , bring copies with you to your first appointment. If you.ve never had an MRI , we.ll discuss your clinical need with you after your examination. (MRI .s are not available at our facility, but are referred to local radiology centers.)

Is this procedure supported by clinical research?
Yes. Here are some brief abstracts with references:

77 patients verified on pre-post MRI with signs and symptoms of herniation, underwent non-surgical intervention including pelvic traction. Changes in herniation and good-excellent symptomatic improvements were noted in over 82%. The authors draw the conclusion improving the disc's contact with the blood supply accounts for healing of herniation and there is an excellent prognosis for herniation with conservative treatment.