What is Decompression Therapy?
Decompression therapy is an FDA-approved method of relieving pain and disability by repairing damaged spinal discs and reversing nerve degradation. Following examination by the chiropractor, a computer-controlled device gently distracts (pulls very slightly apart) your spinal discs. This decompression of the discs lets oxygen and blood flow into affected areas to speed up healing and relieve pain. 
The therapy is totally safe and comfortable for all subjects. The system has emergency stop switches for both the patient and the operator. These switches are a requirement of the FDA and terminates the treatment immediately, avoiding any injuries.
Are the treatment results permanent?
This therapy has an impressive 86% success rate in treating herniated and 
degenerative discs with a 4% reoccurrence rate after one year. Typically additional treatments are not required after the completion of the treatment protocol. However, as with any treatment there are always severe cases that involve particular job/lifestyle activities that may require re-evaluations.
What is decompression like?
You begin by lying face down and you are secured to the table by a comfortable harness system. The harness helps stabilize both your hips and pelvis for decompression.
The decompression system's advanced computer controls automatically adjust the proper angle of distraction (the amount of tension that is gently applied), allowing the specific discs that are causing your pain to be targeted for correction.
You relax and a decompressive effect is then created on your back, which helps herniated material return to its normal position and stops the pain that you may be experiencing.
Patients often describe the treatment as a gentle, intermittent pulling of your back. The therapy can be so relaxing that many patients fall asleep during their treatment.
Treatments?
Patients typically undergo a series of 20 to 25 treatment sessions. This may seem like a lot but they will all be completed in about 4 to 6 weeks. Compare this to the six months an average person has back pain before beginning spinal decompressive therapy. Each treatment session only requires about 30 minutes of your time. This depends on your individual case and is based on a thorough evaluation.
It is important to note that many patients get substantial, immediate relief after just a few treatments. Some report significant improvement after just one treatment.
The really good news is that this is not something you have to continue to do for the rest of your life because the process actually heals the disc instead of covering the symptoms. Current research studies report that patients remain pain free long after they finish the program.
