Decompression Therapy

Schnapper Chiropractic offers Spinal Decompression Therapy using a computer-controlled, state-of-the-art, FDA approved Spinal Decompression Table. This device is used by Dr. Jeffrey Schnapper, D.C. to treat many back and neck problems. It is a non-invasive, precise, gentle and extremely effective way to treat some of the most common conditions that our patients experience. Spinal Decompression Therapy is an effective and safe procedure that does not have any of the risks associated with surgery, anesthesia and injections or other drugs. More and more patients are turning to Spinal Decompression Therapy as a pain-free and safer, more cost effective alternative to traditional surgery. Please read on for the answers to some frequently asked questions.

What Conditions Are Treated by Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal Decompression Therapy is used to treat Neck and Back Pain caused by:

• Spinal Stenosis
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Herniated Discs
• Bulging Discs
• Slipped Discs
• Nerve Compression
• Pinched Nerves
• Sciatica
• Arthritis of the Spine
• Facet Syndromes
• Post-Surgical Low-Back Pain
• Lumbar Strains and Disorders
• Radicular (arm/leg) Pain.

What Exactly is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal Decompression Therapy utilizes a special table, regulated by a computer, which gently pulls apart your spinal discs using a very small, precise, and controlled amount of pressure. This decompression of the discs literally enlarges the space between the spinal bones (vertebrae) causing a reduction in disc pressure and an increase in oxygen and blood flow into affected areas. This decrease in pressure often results in immediate pain relief and allows the healing process to occur at a dramatically faster rate.

When the spinal discs are decompressed, many positive effects are experienced. First, the disc space is expanded. This increase in space removes pressure that is placed on the disc fibers and nerves, thereby reducing pain. Second, when more room is created in between the spinal bones, space is available for herniated and bulging discs to return to their normal position. Third, normal motion to vertebral joints is restored.

In summary, when disc pressure is reduced, nerve pain is decreased or eliminated and patients experience a pain-free return to full daily activities.

Do Patients Experience Any Pain During Decompression Treatment?

In almost all cases, the treatments are completely painless. In fact, some patients fall asleep during their Spinal Decompression session.

What is the Difference between Spinal Decompression and Traction?

The Spinal Decompression table works very differently from a traditional traction table or a flexion-distraction table. Unlike these more basic tables, the Spinal Decompression table is controlled by a highly specialized computer that delivers a very precise amount of pressure specifically calculated based on the patient's size, weight and spinal health. What's more, the system continuously monitors spinal resistance during the treatment session and constantly adjusts its decompression forces based upon the patient's individual needs.

What results Can Patients expect?

Most patients who are given Spinal Decompression Therapy experience a reduction in pain and a reduction in the size and extent of herniation. Some patients experience relief immediately. Other patients require several treatments before they experience relief. Even our most difficult cases have shown considerable improvement.

How Long Does Treatment Last?

Each treatment session lasts 20 to 40 minutes. The number of treatments necessary for healing varies depending on the patient, the severity of his or her condition, and his or her individual response to treatment. On average, 20 sessions are required to complete the therapy. Each patient's specific treatment plan will be determined by Dr. Jeffrey Schnapper, D.C. after a thorough examination and complete health history.

"Observational study found that low back pain patients receiving chiropractic care, which typically includes spinal manipulation, are more satisfied than those receiving medical care." New England Journal of Medicine