Most Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression Treatment
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression involves stretching and decompressing the spine by using non-surgical spinal decompression machines (at our office it’s the DRX9000C, pictured above). The goal is to relieve pain in the back and neck (depending on your pain syndrome) and promote the healing of bulging, herniated, or degenerating discs. This treatment allows the spine to decompress and increases exchange of nutrients in the discs to foster healing.
How Does Spinal Decompression Work?
Spinal decompression treatment (DRX9000C) gently pulls the spine to create space between the vertebrae and promote decompression. This reduces the pressure on spinal discs and the nerves of the spines, improving nutrient exchange and blood flow, working to heal the discs and provide pain relief. DRX9000C treatment typically involves multiple sessions per week over the course of several weeks.
What Conditions Can Spinal Decompression Treat?
Spinal decompression (DRX9000C) therapy can treat a variety of conditions of the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spines, including: low back pain or neck pain (could be acute or chronic), sciatica, herniated or bulging discs, or degenerative disc disease. Symptoms of tingling, numbness, and referred pain can also be associated with the lumbar or cervical spines, and can be helped through spinal decompression.
Who is a Good Candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Ideal candidates include individuals with: herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, posterior facet syndrome (worn spinal joints), sciatica (pain, weakness, or tingling down the leg), or injured or diseased spinal nerve roots.
However, not everyone is suitable for spinal decompression treatment. Individuals with severe osteoporosis, fractures in the spine, tumors, or metal implants in the spine may not be eligible. During your complimentary consultation with Dr. Foglia, he will review your medical history and work to rule out anything that could be a barrier to spinal decompression treatment.
Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Painful?
Most of the time, spinal decompression therapy on the DRX9000C is described as painless and often times relaxing, as during treatment a gentle stretching sensation can be felt in the spine. The DRX9000C is adjusted for each treatment to ensure comfort. There may be some mild muscle soreness after initial sessions, similar to when a person would start a new exercise routine.
How Long Does Each Session Last?
Each spinal decompression therapy session on the DRX9000C typically lasts between 25 to 30 minutes. Treatment plans for the DRX9000C typically involves 20 to 28 sessions over a 6 to 8 week period. The exact duration of treatment and frequency will depend on the individual’s condition and response to therapy.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
Spinal decompression therapy is generally safe, but like any treatment, it carries some risks. Potential side effects include: temporary muscle soreness or spasms, mild discomfort during or after the sessions, and rarely, worsening pain. Throughout sessions, Dr. Foglia checks in on comfort level and the response to treatment, hoping to minimize any negative reactions to treatment and work to adjust care.
How Much Does Spinal Decompression Therapy Cost?
The cost of spinal decompression therapy varies based on equipment used, location, provider, and number of sessions required. On average, a single session may range from $50 to $250. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost of spinal decompression, but it is necessary to check with your provider and insurance company for specifics.
What Should I Expect During the First Visit?
Dr. Foglia provides a complimentary consultation at no charge to you. During this consultation, Dr. Foglia will conduct a thorough medical history and review of records, including review of MRI and CAT scans, discuss your symptoms and previous treatments, explain the spinal decompression process, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for spinal decompression therapy on the DRX9000C. If deemed appropriate, a personalized treatment plan will be created and treatment will begin.
How Soon Will I See Results?
Many patients report feeling some relief after a few sessions, but optimal results typically take several weeks of consistent treatment. Timeline for improvement will vary depending on the severity of the condition, adherence to the treatment plan, and individual response to therapy.
Contact Us
If you would like more information about Spinal Decompression, the DRX9000C, or any of our other services or multidisciplinary approaches, send us an email and the doctor will promptly reply, or call our office and schedule your complimentary consultation appointment with Dr. Foglia.
