Spinal decompression can be achieved both surgically and non-surgically and is used to treat conditions that result in chronic back pain such as disc bulge, disc herniation, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and isthmic and degenerative spondylolisthesis.
A. Surgical Spinal Decompression (SSD)
These procedures are known as microdiscectomy, or microdecompression, and laminectomy, or open decompression. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a portion of a herniated nucleus pulpolsus is removed by way of a surgical instrument or laser while using an operating microscope or loupe for magnification (1).
Laminectomy is an invasive surgical procedure in which a small portion of the arch of the vertebrae (bone) is removed from the spine to alleviate the pressure on the pinched nerve. This is an elective procedure for those that have not found relief of their back pain through more conservative treatment options (2) such as NSSD.
B. Non-surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression is achieved through the use of mechanical traction controlled through an on-board computer that controls the force and angle of disc distraction -or- by gravity.
All-to-often, back surgery (SSD Procedure) is performed unnecessarily. Many aren’t aware of both the financial and medical benefits of NSSD as well as DIY. NSSD with computer controls is a highly effective technology that is supported by insurance companies due to the outstanding success rates and relatively low costs compared to surgery. An MRI is required to qualify for Computer Controlled NSSD. More than 75% of all patients with spine problems are good candidates for NSSD.
The second form of NSSD is by gravity (DIY). A home-based inversion table can supply the method to apply gravity to pull the spine and achieve spinal decompression; however, home based systems are missing the control of medical protocols to insure that valid, safe and consistent techniques are utilized. DIY systems are only as good as the subject performing the DIY, unless the person is taught and coached by experts at AMHC with the application of heat and cold.
Cervical Thoracic Lumbar
