Spinal Decompression Therapy

Dr. Shaun McCrae offers Spinal Decompression Therapy at both The Woodlands and Sugarland clinics. Spinal Decompression Therapy is an effective FDA approved non-surgical treatment alternative for a variety of disc-related problems. Decompression is a much more affordable treatment plan than surgery.

Considering back or neck surgery,
let's look at your non-invasive alternatives.

Spinal Decompression Therapy is an effective treatment for:

• Herniated Discs
• Degenerative Discs
• Facet Syndrome
• Sciatica
• Neuropathy/Radiculopathy Spinal Stenosis

Do you have a herniated disc, multiple herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome, or any other type of spinal problem? Is your doctor suggesting surgery? Have you tried Chiropractic and just could not get enough relief?

Research shows the disc is responsible for a significant number of lumbar/leg pain and neck/arm pain syndromes. Compression increases intra-discal pressure leading to annular compromise and possible extrusion of nuclear material.

Since the disc is a relatively avascular structure, it doesn't receive fresh blood and oxygen with every beat of the heart. It requires "diffusion" created by motion and 'decompression' to restore nutrients and enhance healing.

The Triton DTS represents the finest Decompression Traction System available today. Cervical, lumbar, and wrist Decompression Traction can be delivered utilizing the Triton DTS in a controlled and proven method.

Decompression therapy is very affordable and cheaper than surgery. Spinal Traction is highly recommended by Neurological Research. It was found that out of 778 cases of patients receiving spinal decompression 92% said that they showed improvement (Neurological Research; Volume 20, Number 3, April 1998).

FAQs about Spinal Decompression

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical, comfortable traction therapy for the relief of back and leg pain or neck and arm pain. During this procedure, by cycling through distraction and relaxation phases and by proper positioning, a spinal disc can be isolated and placed under negative pressure, causing a vacuum effect within it.

What can this vacuum effect do?

The vacuum effect accomplishes two things. From a mechanical standpoint, disc material that has protruded or herniated outside the normal confines of the disc can be pulled back within the disc by the vacuum created within the disc. Also, the vacuum within the disc stimulates in growth of blood supply, secondarily stimulating a healing response. This results in pain reduction and proper healing at the injured site.

What machine is used for this purpose?

There is a number of spinal decompression machines presently used in the United States. After significant research, Dr. McCrae and Essential Sport & Wellness Chiropractic have chosen to use the Triton DTS machine manufactured by Chattanooga, Inc., the premier manufacturer of physical therapy machines.

Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is designed to unload the spinal disc. Any back pain or neck pain caused in whole or in part by a damaged disc may be helped by spinal decompression therapy. These conditions include herniated, protruding or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica or radiculopathy (pinched nerves).

Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression is not indicated?

Spinal decompression therapy is usually not recommended for pregnant women, patients with disc fragmentation, patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage. It is not recommended for patients over 70. However, every patient is evaluated on an individual basis. Spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws and metal plates or "cages") is also contraindicated. Surgery to the discs without fusion or fusion using bony replacement is not contraindicated.

How often do I take treatment sessions? How long does each session last?

Each session includes decompression therapy and spinal stabilization exercises and takes about 1 hour. Spinal decompression is usually performed 2-3 times a week for 18-30 sessions.

What are the results of Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Over 70% of patients have good pain relief. This success rate is similar to surgical results.

Can I try Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy can help people with back pain after failed spinal surgery. It can be performed in most patients who have not been left with an unstable spine after surgery.

Would you like to know if Spinal Decompression Therapy is an option for you? Call Dr. McCrae at 281-292-7525. Helping residents in The Woodlands, Sugarland and surrounding areas live a pain free lifestyle again