Spinal decompression is creating quite a buzz these days for those suffering with a multitude of spine related symptoms such as sciatic pain, disc herniations and stenosis, a narrowing of the space between two vertebrae where the nerve exits the spinal column. We encounter many questions regarding Spinal Decompression Table Therapy. Let’s address a few of those so you can understand better what and who spinal decompression is for, and if you or a friend or loved one could benefit from it for pain relief and spinal issue resolution.
Is spinal decompression the same as spinal traction? The term “traction” is often used synonymously with “decompression” however they are NOT one and the same. Traction is a somewhat loosely used word that essentially refers to any treatment or device that provides some version of elongating the spine such as a, “IST roller” table (aka Intersegmental Traction Table), a Teeter hang up (aka inversion table), or even a so called traction table that may look remarkably similar to a true decompression table. While some of these modality therapies could offer some degree of benefit or could even be complementary to true spinal decompression, they are not one and the same.
Is a decompression table similar to an inversion table? This is where it becomes a little tricky. It’s also why a hanging inversion table may provide mild relief as there is a temporary reduction in gravitational forces that will not truly change the long term status of dysfunction in the spine. Similarly IST or “roller” tables do provide a mild pumping benefit that can reinforce motion in joints as well as stretch ligaments, however they lack the ability to create the vacuum-like effect necessary for full rehabilitation.
Is it safe and will it hurt? True Spinal decompression is unique in its ability to safely rehabilitate the spine by way of creating a negative vacuum-like pressure inside the center of the disc, much like a compressed sponge released in water will soak up the fluid as it expands and expels fluid as it’s compressed. Given that our spinal discs have virtually no blood vessels to supply them with ‘groceries’ and remove the “garbage”, they require a pump-like motion much like that sponge action in order to maintain their health, height and elasticity. In order to achieve this you must have a substantial and specific targeted movement at a specific disc level, that is able to create the necessary vacuum required to pull disc fluid inside and repair collagen, without your body resisting and counteracting reflexively.
Which spinal decompression table is the best and where can I find one? Not all spinal decompression tables are made equal. Most spinal decompression tables utilize a winch-like mechanism pulling from a cable connected to a belt to a preset tension regardless of your spine’s ability to endure that force. This type of table can cause muscle spasming and guarding that can be quite uncomfortable and curtail the intended effects. Some manufacturers wrap these winch style devices in a fancy large plastic housing combined with flagrant marketing to give the illusion that their table is anything other than a standard traction table. At the Wellness Center of Boise we seek out the very best, cutting edge therapies that have proven results. After months of research, while exploring decompressive therapy options, we chose to utilize a Hill Decompression table allowing us to overcome the issues occurring with standard decompression tables. As the most technologically advanced true spinal decompression table on the market it eliminates the winch style pulling mechanism. Rather than pulling, it employs a gentle pushing force with multiple sensors that read your resistance level. By reversing this mechanism and measuring load force it adjusts accordingly allowing your body to truly achieve the intended benefits, without forcing you into a guarded state of contraction and discomfort. It also allows for a more precise treatment with the ability to alter the decompressive angle of the pelvis and neck targeting the exact area to be decompressed. Currently, The Wellness Center of Boise is the ONLY clinic in ALL of Idaho with this technologically advanced decompression therapy, and have already achieved life changing results with numerous patients.
How do I know if it’s something I could benefit from? If you or someone you know has moderate to severe back or neck pain, has ever been diagnosed with or suffers from sciatic pain, has endured chronic pain that doesn’t seem to go away no matter what you do, been diagnosed with or suspects degenerative disc disease eventually leading to stenosis, then we have a promising solution for you. Schedule your consultation and free trial today to see if you or a loved one qualifies for this incredible unique therapy, and let us help you get your life back!
