Questions
and Answers
Q:
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy ?
A: Spinal Decompression Therapy is a proven safe & effective
means to treat
severe and chronic cervical (neck) and lumbar (low back) conditions.
The
program consists of FDA approved non-surgical Spinal Decompression
equipment focusing on discal and arthritic conditions affecting the
spine. Depending on the provider, ancillary care is available in the
form of
braces/supports, physiotherapy modalities and procedures, spinal
manipulation/mobilization, supervised gradual functional restoration/core
strengthening program, home/self care program and/or medications.
Q:
What conditions does Spinal Decompression Therapy treat ?
A: Spinal Decompression Therapy can effectively treat: Disc Herniations
(Low back pain and/or leg pain/numbness & Neck pain and/or arm
pain/numbness ), Degenerative Disc Disease, Arthritis, Facet Syndrome,
Spinal Stenosis, Failed Back Surgery/Post Surgical Pain Syndrome.
Q: What are the success
rates for Spinal Decompression Therapy ?
A: LCD is up to 70% successful, but studies on Spinal Decompression
indicate
between a 71%-90% success rate with one study reporting an immediate
resolution of symptoms in 86% of the participants. Results will vary
depending
on your particular condition, how long you have had this for and your
willingness to adhere to your recommended treatment plan.
Q:
Does my Insurance cover this type of therapy ?
A: Many Medical plans may cover this type of therapy and the
ancillary procedures and modalities associated with it. However, there
may be associated co-payments and deductibles that may be applicable
to you. We will be happy to verify your insurance coverage and give
you an idea of exact costs before any services are performed.
Q:
If I don't have Insurance, or my Insurance plan does not cover Spinal
Decompression Therapy, are payment plans available ?
A: Yes. Spinal Decompression therapy is now affordable to accommodate
your financial needs. We offer flexible, interest free, payment plans,
fee-for-service discount plans, senior discounts and other plans to
allow everyone who qualifies for immediate care.
Q:
Does the treatment offer permanent relief ?
A: Our program is designed to bring lasting relief so as not
to necessitate ongoing therapy. We integrate an active exercise component
in addition to a home care protocol designed to teach you to strengthen
your back. In some severe cases, follow-up supportive care may be recommended.
Q:
How long does each treatment session take and how long do I treat for
?
A: Generally, each visit takes between 30 - 45 minutes depending
on the type of doctor you see. A full course of Spinal Decompression
therapy takes between 4-8 weeks depending on how often and what condition
you are being treated for.
Q:
What if I start the therapy and I don't feel any different after a number
of treatment sessions ?
A: Although many patients report an immediate decrease in symptoms,
be patient. Most likely, your condition developed over many years and
in some cases, over many decades. Also, your doctor will perform period
re-evaluations to determine objective changes (changes found during
the physical exam) in addition to subjective changes.
Q:
What are the most common reasons that people do not get better during
decompression therapy ?
A: The most common reason is that patients do not comply with
their doctors treatment prescriptions. We understand that you have many
other obligations such as family and work. We will work hard to schedule
you at time that is convenient for you but that may not always be possible.
Do not quit, remember the old saying "You are doomed to fail if
you do not try".
Q:
Are there conditions that are contraindicated ?
A: Yes, severe Osteoporosis, Tumors, Cancers, Ankylosing Spondylitis,
Fractures, Post-surgical conditions with hardware (rods, screws, plates,
cages) and recent Fusions to name a few. That is why a consult is necessary
to rule in or out conditions for decompression therapy.
Q:
Can I receive Spinal Decompression therapy if I had surgery ?
A: In most cases YES unless hardware such as screws, rods, plates
and cages are present or a recent fusion.
Q:
What is my next step ?
A: Call your nearest office. Schedule a complimentary consultation.
In most cases, your eligibility for Spinal Decompression therapy can
be determined during the consult. A complete physical examination of
your condition can also be performed on the same day as your consultation.
The doctor will review any diagnostic examinations and your physical
examination and give you a treatment recommendation should you qualify.
Meanwhile, our office staff will verify your insurance benefits and
determine what expenses, if any, you are required to pay. It's that
simple