Spinal Decompression

About Spinal Decompression Therapy and the Triton Decompression Traction System (DTS)

Jeffers Neck & Back Pain Center is pleased to offer the Triton Decompression Traction System (DTS), which is used for spinal decompression therapy, an advanced form of spinal traction. Spinal decompression therapy can be a successful, non-surgical alternative treatment for relieving low back, neck pain, and radiating arm and leg pain. Spinal decompression therapy is an effective treatment for:

Herniated or Bulging Discs
Sciatica

Degenerative Disc Disease

Post-surgical Patients
Facet Syndrome
Spinal Stenosis
Neck and Back Pain

What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a modern, non-surgical traction procedure that effectively treats low back, neck, and radiating leg and arm pain. This type of traction is very successful in relieving pain associated with spinal disc herniation, degenerative spinal discs, and facet joint syndromes. Spinal decompression therapy decompresses spinal discs and facet joints by utilizing traction, distraction, and body positioning.

Research to develop this procedure was conducted by prominent physicians, engineers and technicians at major teaching hospitals. Our Triton Decompression Traction System is FDA approved and has been clinically proven to provide pain relief and decrease symptoms associated with herniated and/or bulging discs.

Studies have shown that the spinal disc injury is responsible for a significant number of lumbar/leg pain and neck/arm pain syndromes. Excessive compression forces from daily activities increases internal spinal disc pressure which can lead to spinal disc protrusion, herniation, and bulging of disc material.

Using the Triton DTS in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities provided in our clinic (works extremely well when combined with class IV laser therapy) can effectively relieve the pain and disability resulting from disc injury and degeneration. The treatment aids in the healing of damaged discs and reverses dystrophic changes in nerves. The Triton DTS treats the functional and mechanical aspects of spinal disc pain through non-surgical traction (decompression) of spinal discs.

Our, computer-controlled Triton DTS is designed to apply distraction and decompression to the patient's spine without producing reflex paravertebral muscle contractions.

By significantly reducing internal disc pressure, the Triton DTS promotes retraction of the herniation spinal disc material back to a normal physiologic position and promotes the intake of fluids, oxygen, and other substances necessary for healing the spinal disc and surrounding tissues. This decompression stimulates the repair of tissues and inhibits leakage of the internal material of the spinal disc (also known as the nucleus pulposus).

Recent research has shown that 86% of the 219 patients who completed decompression therapy reported immediate resolution of symptoms, while 84% remained pain-free 90 days post-treatment. Physical examination findings showed improvement in 92% of the 219 patients, and remained intact in 89% of these patients 90 days after treatment (Gionis, Thomas MD; Groteke, Eric DC. Surgical Alternatives: Spinal Decompression. Orthopedic Technology Review. 2003; 6 (5).

Spinal decompression Q & A:

Can any chiropractor perform Spinal Decompression?

While it is within the scope of practice for chiropractors to perform spinal decompression we recommend only pursuing this specialized form of treatment with a doctor who has been well trained. Dr. Jeffers is a Certified Decompression Therapy Practitioner and has been performing spinal decompression for over 10 years!

Can spinal decompression help my pain?

Though each patient is different and no doctor can guarantee success, the clinical results of this type of therapy have been shown to be effective in 86% of patients treated. The common problems of many back conditions are damaged spinal discs and poor spinal muscle control. Our treatment program addresses both of these core problems. The specially-designed Triton Decompression Traction System creates a controlled unloading of the spine which appears to decrease spinal disc pressure while increasing blood and nutrient exchange. This blood and nutrient exchange is critical to aid in the spinal disc healing process. Muscle strength, control, and endurance can all be improved with our spinal therapy program which will includes specific controlled spinal exercises as well as other treatment modalities.

Will it hurt?

Treatments using the Triton DTS are one of the most gentle and comfortable therapies available. The treatments utilize FDA-cleared equipment with proven safety and efficacy. Most patients report a mild sense of stretching on their back or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions. The Triton Decompression Traction System is produced by one of the world's largest manufacturers of hospital-based therapy and rehabilitation equipment, Chattanooga. Patients always have a "kill switch" while on decompression. In the rare case in which a patient does experience discomfort all they need to do is press the button and it will stop immediately.

How long will the treatment be necessary?

This depends on the complexity and extent of treatment needed, however, we typically treat patients 2-3 times a week for approximately 1 month, and then the frequency is reduced. The treatment is administered over a reasonable time frame and the patient's response to treatment is continually evaluated. Treatment may be increased or reduced in frequency depending on the response to treatment.

My problem is with my neck. Can spinal decompression help me?

YES! We treat as many people with neck problems as low back problems and Spinal Decompression is equally effective for either.