Spinal Decompression Pros & Cons

Spinal decompression is a nonsurgical approach to alleviating pressure on compressed disks. This is achieved by stretching the spine either by using mechanical traction techniques or by a physician using a computer-assisted approach.

Short Recovery

Recovery is short and extended bed rest is not required after spinal decompression. This makes spinal decompression an agreeable alternative to surgery due to the reduced discomfort and downtime.

Low Treatment Costs

The costs associated with spinal decompression are substantially less than the costs associated with spinal surgery. Spinal decompression is typically divided up into around 20 treatments that average between $75 and $200. This is often less than the cost of the co-pay associated with spine surgery.

Surgical Prevention

Spinal decompression may prevent surgery. Anyone wishing to avoid surgery or apprehensive about the risks of surgery may opt for decompression first in order to prevent surgical intervention.

Required Commitment

Treatment with spinal decompression is an extended process, requiring about 20 treatments throughout approximately a six week period. It is not a definitive cure for back pain and back pain may still be present at the end of treatment.

Frequent Transportation

Patients who have problems with frequent physician visits due to severe back pain, illness or lack of transportation may find it difficult to follow through with a spinal decompression treatment plan.

Limited Eligibility

Spinal decompression is not intended for everyone, and some people may not be suitable for treatment. Patients who are pregnant or who have advanced osteoporosis cannot be treated with spinal decompression, nor those with abdominal aortic aneurysms, tumors or structural integrity problems of the spine.