Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) is a non-invasive treatment to alleviate symptoms of neck pain, back pain, and sciatica. It is used to treat patients who have bulging or herniated discs, degenerative disc disease and facet syndrome. NSSD produces negative pressure within the spine, which works to help reposition bulging discs and take pressure off pinched nerves. Experts believe that this negative pressure creates a vacuum-like effect in the spine and draws nutrients, oxygen, and fluids into the discs to promote overall healing of the discs and tissues within the spine.
You may benefit from spinal decompression if you have chronic or severe pain that is caused by bulging or herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or facet syndrome, or if you have been advised to consider surgery. Unfortunately, with certain conditions, such as placement of surgical hardware or recent fracture, spinal decompression is not recommended.
A course of treatment typically includes 24-30 visits over a period of 6-8 weeks. At each session, you will be fitted with a pelvic harness to aid in the decompression process, and asked to lie down on the table. The process is a cyclical one, comprised of a series of gentle pulls, holds, and releases over the course of a 20-30 minute session. As a result, the spine is slowly lengthened and the discs are gradually decompressed. Initially, you may experience some mild discomfort, but as treatment continues this should subside. If at any time during a session you feel discomfort, you may switch the patient safety clasp to stop the process. The treatment program is designed to make your safety a top priority.
Through NSSD, as the discs and tissues heal, symptoms and pain should begin to subside. Some patients have noticed a reduction in pain after just a few sessions, though the healing process is different for everyone. Even if you feel immediate relief, it is essential to complete all treatment sessions in order to receive the most effective, long-term relief of pain symptoms.