The key difference between regular traction and spinal decompression therapy is the computer. It controls the variations in the traction pull, allowing for spinal decompression that eliminates muscle guarding that is typical in conventional traction devices. The preprogrammed patterns for ramping up and down the amount of axial distraction allows for higher levels of spinal decompression and disc re-hydration.

Regular traction systems simply pull on the spine at a pre-set rate and force. Spinal Decompression systems gradually build up the force of the pull, and the more sophisticated Spinal Decompression systems can also adapt to the body's reactions to the treatment. This adaptability of the machine allows the body to stay relaxed for the majority of the treatment, and by keeping the body relaxed, the treatment effects are much greater on the spinal discs than what can be achieved with regular traction.

The latest generation of traction tables are more cleverly disguised - just remember that no matter how large and "hi-tech" the unit may look, traction machines pull on the spine in only one direction. No simple traction device has ever shown before-and-after MRIs where there was increased disc height or a visible reduction of a disc herniation. The problem with traction is that it just pulls and pulls and pulls, and after a few minutes your body says, "Hey, I'm being stretched!" It reacts by tightening or even creating spasms in the surrounding muscle.

Spinal decompression tables not only pull the spine, they can actually "sense" how much force the body is pulling back with. The table's computer puts this information together and can actually decrease the amount of pull when needed - or in some cases, shut down the machine completely down if that is required. Just like traction tables, no matter how large and "hi-tech" the unit may look, some decompression machines pull on the spine in only one direction. At Natural Spine Solutions, our decompression table is different. The core difference between our system and other decompression systems is that we have the possibility to change their position in 3D space. This gives the advantages of being able to set the spinal column to the exact position according to the personalized therapy parameters of each patient, through the choice of flexion angle, axial rotation angle and lateral flexion angle.

Dr. Wayne Fichter, D.C., is the lead doctor at Natural Spine Solutions, with more than 15 years of experience treating families. He also has been the lead doctor in handling serious neck and back problems through non-surgical spinal decompression. Call (208) 966-4425 for all of your spinal and wellness needs.