FAQ

Vancouver Spinal Decompression FAQ

What causes low back pain?

Low back pain can be caused by a number of factors from injuries to the effects of aging. The spinal cord is protected by the vertebrae, which are made of bone. Between each vertebra are soft discs with a ligamentous outer layer. These discs function as shock absorbers to protect the vertebra and the spinal cord. Many of the problems that cause back pain are the result of herniation and degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Degeneration is a process where wear and tear causes deterioration of the disc. Herniations, or bulging of the disc are protrusions from the disc that press on surrounding nerves, causing pain or numbness.

If I undergo Spinal Decompression treatment, how long does it take to see results?

Some patients report a reduction in pain after the first few sessions. While some patients report significant improvement by the second week of treatment.

How long does it take to complete Spinal Decompression treatment?

On an average, three 30 minute sessions per week for 5 weeks. Though, the number of sessions may vary depending upon the severity of the condition.

Do I qualify for Spinal Decompression treatment?

Since I began using Spinal Decompression spinal disc decompression unit, I have been inundated with questions from both doctors and patients as to which cases it will best help. Obviously proper patient selection is essential to favorable outcomes, so let me explain to you of the Inclusion and Exclusion criteria so you may make the right decision since not everyone qualifies for Spinal Decompression treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• • Pain due to herniated and bulging lumbar discs that is more than four weeks old
• • Recurrent pain from a failed back surgery that is more than six months old.
• • Persistent pain from degenerated disc not responding to four weeks of therapy.
• • Patients available for four weeks of treatment protocol.
• • Patient at least 18 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria:

• • Surgical appliances - fusion, metal screws and rods.
• • Pregnancy.
• • Metastatic cancer.
• • Severe osteoporosis.
• • Grade II or above spondylolisthesis (unstable slippage of a vertebrae in relation to the adjacent vertebrae).
• • Compression fracture of lumbar spine below L1 less than twelve months old.
• • Pars defect.
• • Pathologic aortic aneurysm.
• • Disc space infections.
• • Severe peripheral neuropathy.
• • Hemiplegia, paraplegia, or cognitive dysfunction.

Are there any side effects to the treatment?

Most patients do not experience any side effects. Though, there have been some mild cases of muscle spasm for a short period of time.


 

How do I get started?

Contact our office at 604-689-HEAL (4325) to schedule an initial consultation with the Doctor to determine your individual situation. Medical Evaluation and Diagnostic testing procedures should be performed prior to beginning any treatment in order to determine the most effective process. After carefully studying your case history and exam findings, the Doctor will sit down and explain his recommended plan of action for you. After answering any questions you may have about the recommended plan, you may begin your care.

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