Spinal Disc Decompression

The Progression of Spinal Decompression

Spinal Decompression has had many technological milestones. Some early tables were just straight pulley tables which were slightly more advanced than traction because they were software driven, yet they would only allow a set amount of pressure. Over time, spinal decompression tables were developed to have a ramp up and ramp down speed of distraction - making for a much smoother experience for the patient. Later advances followed in the form of belting and improved patient comfort.

Now, the newer machines allow for isolation of certain joint segments of the spine. So as opposed to pulling over a large area of the spine, you can pinpoint the focus of decompression. Now we can also address the direction for which the patient can be treated. Not all patients walk in with a perfectly straight or vertical posture. Alot of times they are bent to one side and are unable to handle alot of stress unless they are placed in a certain specific position. Now decompression is able to accomodate a patient's position and they are able to be treated free of pain.

In addition to a mechanical, motor driven stretch of the spine, some of the newer machines allow for gravitational protocols. This allows for the body's lower body weight to add a natural pull to the structures of the spine. This protocol is found on some of the more advanced units that allow for multidirectional decompression. The multidirectional advances, the gravitational advances, and the software advances have all been very progressive in the evolution of spinal decompression therapy.

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