How Effective Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Posted on Sat, 17 Sep 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 17 Sep 2016 Answered on

Tue, 4 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : How effective is spinal decompression therapy?
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Around 30-40 % .

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy ( or traction therapy ) is effective in reducing pain in 30-40 % of cases treated this way for spinal stenosis and herniated discs, regarding to studies.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (4 hours later)

Thank you. Would your answer be any more favorable if the discs are not herniated, but just protruding into the spinal canal?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
In case of protrusions a more favorable result is expected.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

There are several factors to consider about the degree of the narrowing of spinal canal and nerves compression such previous width of the spinal canal, associated degenerative changes such arthritis, degree of herniation etc.

In cases when discs protrusion is the main cause of symptoms, I think spinal decompression therapy could be more favorable.

Hope I helped you.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar