What can this vacuum effect do?

The vacuum effect accomplishes two things. From a mechanical standpoint, disc material that has protruded or herniated outside the normal confines of the disc may be pulled back within the disc by the vacuum created within the disc. Also, the vacuum within the disc stimulates growth of blood supply, secondarily stimulating a healing response. This results in pain reduction and proper healing at the injured site.

What machine is used for this purpose?

There are a number of spinal decompression systems presently used in the United States. After significant research, Texas Back and Neck Care Center chose the Triton DTS system manufactured by Chattanooga, Inc., the premier manufacturer of physical medicine equipment. This table can be used for the neck and low back, and the patient can be positioned either face up, down, or sideways, and be angled to allow the greatest patient comfort and results--a huge distinction from other tables. If you had a posterior herniation and another patient had an anterior herniation you would obviously need to be positioned differently. Don't be fooled by the marketing of other manufacturers. The studies they provide excluded everyone except those patients that could lay down in the position that their table allowed?

Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is not indicated?

Yes. Spinal decompression therapy is usually not recommended for pregnant women, patients who have severe osteoporosis, severe obesity or severe nerve damage. Spinal surgery with instrumentation (screws, metal plates or "cages") is also contraindicated. However, spinal decompression therapy after bone fusion or non-fusion surgery, can be performed. This means a majority of post-surgical failures are still good candidates for treatment!