Vertebral Axial Decompression Therapy

with Mari Rios

Vertebral Axial Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical means of decompressing nerve roots, facet joints and certain types of lumbar disc herniations.  It also treats lumbar degenerative disc disease with pain from disc space loss.  It is a form of intermittent mechanical traction that utilizes computerized stress and tension ratios directed specifically at the lumbar spine.  The treatment consists of 15 cycles of intermittent traction, the pulling phase lasting one minute and the rest phase lasting 40 seconds.  This on/off action works like an iron lung to the lumbar discs creating a renewed forced circulation.  The pulling phase creates a negative pressure within the disc forcing fluid with its dissolved nutrients and oxygen into the disc.  The relaxation phase, like a sponge being rung-out, forces the build up caustic dissolved metabolic acids and waste products to be excreted.  Research has shown it is these metabolic acids that irritate the nerves that innervate the outside perimeter of the disc and cause pain.