Research Studies

Abstract:

The object of the study was to examine the effect of vertebral axial decompression on pressure in the nucleus pulposus of lumbar discs. Intradiscal pressure measurement was performed by connecting a cannula inserted in to the patients L4/L5 disc space to a pressure transducer. Changes in intradiscal pressure were recorded at resting state and while controlled tension was applied by the equipment to a pelvic harness. Intradiscal pressure was decreased in the nucleus to below -100 mm HG.

Details of Study:

• Outcomes of decompression therapy for patients with a diagnosis of herniated disc, degenerated disc, or facet syndrome
• 778 cases studied
• Average time between the initial onset of symptoms and beginning of this treatment was 40 months.
• Data was collected from 22 medical centers in the USA.
• Average number of treatments: 17 facet syndrome, 19 disc degeneration and 20 HNP
• Pain was rated on a scale from 0 to 5 with 5 being severe pain.
• Treatment was considered a success when the original pain was reduced to 0 or 1.

Overall Findings:

Treatment was successful 71% of the time

• 73% – single herniated discs
• 72% – multiple herniated discs
• 68% – facet syndromes
• 68% – failed back surgery
• 53% – extruded herniated discs

Details of Study:

• A total of 296 patients with low back pain and evidence of a degenerative and or herniated disc at 1 or more levels
• 8 Week course of treatment = 24 sessions:
  • Week 1 – 4: 5 times per week @30 minute sessions
  • Week 5 – 8: 1 time per week @ 30 minute session
• Numeric pain rating scale and the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire were completed at pre-intervention, discharge, 30 days, and 180 days.
• All subjects must have reported a lack of favorable outcomes after at least 2 non-operative interventions.
• 0 – 10 Pain Scale, 0 – 24 scale Roland Morris
• The majority of the patients, 79%, reported their symptoms of LBP were present for greater than 6 months (Chronic)

Research Findings:

• 91% – resumed normal daily activities
• 87% – working or retired without back pain
• 71% – showed over 50% reduction in pain immediately after treatment
• 86% – showed 50% or better pain reduction at four years
• 52% – pain level of zero

Summary:

After 4 years, 52% of respondents reported a pain level of zero. Thus, pain relief is not only lasted but improved.”– R. Odell, MD

Conclusion:

Disc repair fundamentally depends on the stage of disc degeneration. This study with respect to previous reports, confirms that disc distraction enhances hydration in the degenerated disc and may improve disc nutrition via the vertebral endplates.

Research Findings:

• Decompression treatment rendered “good” to “excellent” relief in 86% of patients with herniated discs and 75% in patients with facet arthrosis.
• Traction yielded no “excellent” results in patients with herniated discs and only 50% “good” to “excellent” results with patients who were diagnosed with facet arthrosis

Research Findings:

• Patients treated with traction compared to a control group that had simulated traction demonstrated no significant differences in outcome.
• Traditional traction does not produce spinal decompression

Decompression has been proven as an effective treatment for herniated and degenerative disc disease, by creating a negative intradiscal pressure