Spinal decompression therapy sounds terrifying. Mention that it is an advanced form of spinal traction, and many people have visions of torture devices.

In reality, this new therapy doesn’t occur in a dungeon. It’s a new, non-surgical alternative for relieving low-back pain, neck pain and radiating arm and leg pain. Spinal decompression therapy is effective in treating:

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Sciatica referring to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips, buttocks and down each leg.
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Post-surgical discomfort
  • Facet syndrome
  • Spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the open spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on your spinal cord and nerves that travel through the spine to your arms and legs. Spinal stenosis occurs most in the lower back and neck.

This therapy relieves pain by decompressing spinal discs and facet joints. At Kansas City Chiropractic, we use the Triton Decompression Traction System (DTS). While old-school traction has been around for thousands of years, Triton DTS is a new, computerized system.

What’s the difference?

  • Traditional traction uses steady pressure. It can cause involuntary, uncomfortable muscle contractions.
  • Triton DTS uses varied pressure to avoid contractions. It provides a gentle treatment.

Each year more than 50,000 patients use this FDA-approved system with great results. A recent study showed 86 percent of patients reported immediate resolution of their pain, and 84 percent were pain-free 90 days after Triton DTS treatment.

The system uses traction, distraction and body positioning. This sounds pretty active considering you’ll just be relaxing. For a treatment, you’ll lie on the comfortable Triton DTS table and be fitted in a support system that will help stabilize your body. Then, the computer-controlled system automatically adjusts to target the specific spinal discs that are causing pain.

The Triton DTS computer simulates an anti-gravity effect on your spine. This helps herniated disc material to move toward its normal position. Each session lasts 30 to 40 minutes. People usually describe the treatment as a gentle, painless, intermittent pulling sensation.

The number of treatments needed depends on the individual. At Kansas City Chiropractic, we do a complete physical evaluation prior to starting any treatment. Many patients find substantial pain relief after just a few Triton DTS sessions. Typically, 15 to 20 sessions provide the greatest results.

We often combine Triton DTS treatments with other therapies, like chiropractic adjustments, massage, acupuncture and laser treatments. We may also suggest specific exercises or dietary changes to help alleviate pain and get you back to peak performance ASAP.

Triton DTS treatment is an option for a wide range of patients. People who have new pain and those with long-standing discomfort can all benefit. Spinal decompression therapy can even help people who’ve had failed surgery for herniated or bulging discs.

You don’t have to live with pain. Even if your doctor says they’ve done all they can, you owe it to yourself to get a second opinion. Learn more about Triton DTS and how it could help you.

Article by Dr. Lynn McIntosh. Dr. McIntosh is a board-certified chiropractor licensed in Kansas and Missouri.   She is also a certified acupuncturist. Learn more at KansasCityChiropractic.com.