Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy, and what are its advantages?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical traction based treatment outcome for herniated or bulging discs in the neck and lower back. Anyone who has back, neck, arm or leg pain may be helped by spinal decompression therapy.
What type of decompression systems are used?
After a significant amount of research, Dr. Chapman chose the most versatile, state-of-the-art decompression system available, the Kennedy Decompression Table. This system provides the patient with comfort during treatment, ease of use, and the ability to treat both neck and low back conditions. These were primary factors in the decision-making process. Utilizing this system, we can provide our clients with the best possible care available.
Is the doctor certified in spinal decompression therapy?
Dr. Chapman is a Certified Practitioner in the Kennedy Decompression Technique. He has done spinal decompression for over 21 years and has had success with hundreds of patients.
What makes Spinal Decompression Therapy so effective?
The doctor’s expertise, knowledge and skill are the keys to proper treatment and desired outcome. Using state-of-the-art equipment is also important. When a skilled physician uses state-of-the-art equipment, the chances are the Doctor and client will have a successful outcome. The ultimate goal of the treatment is to provide you with the best possible care so we can get you well as quickly as possible. Prior to treatment, Dr. Chapman will do whatever is necessary to understand your condition. Sufficient time will be taken to properly diagnose your condition. Dr. Chapman does not like to do guess work when it comes to his clients’ healthcare needs. He wants to know exactly what your problem is. That way, he will know specifically what is needed to treat your condition. And, that is why the Spinal Decompression Therapy is so effective.
Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Anyone who has chronic or acute low back pain or neck pain caused by herniated or bulged discs, degenerative disc disease, degenerative joint disease, posterior facet syndrome, arm or leg pain, “sciatica,” lateral canal spinal stenosis, and even failed surgery, can benefit from spinal decompression therapy.
If you have neck pain and are not sure what is causing it and want to know if spinal decompression therapy could help, please call our office at 406-721-5780 to set up an appointment for a free consultation with the doctor.
Are there medical studies that document the effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Yes! One MRI study documented up to 90% reduction of disc herniations in 10 of 14 cases and other studies reported that the majority of herniated disc patients achieved “good” to “excellent” results after spinal decompression therapy.
If you would like to review the studies yourself or click here to read case studies on actual patients from our office. “To Your Health” magazine featured an article about spinal decompression therapy by Dr. James Edwards. Dr. Edwards discussed the safety and effectiveness of this non-surgical treatment for spinal disc herniations.
Are there conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is not indicated?
Spinal decompression therapy is 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.
How many spinal decompression sessions will be needed and are they painful?
The number of session needed and your specific treatment plan will be determined by the doctor after your examination.
In almost all cases, the treatments are completely painless. During the treatment you usually feel relief; some patients even fall asleep. Following the treatment there may be some increased tenderness that lets you know that the treatment has been effective. Once you experience the treatment you will wonder why you didn’t come in sooner.
Will insurance cover the cost of my spinal decompression program?
YES! Most insurance plans provide coverage for the cost of our spinal decompression program. While reimbursement can vary, your out-of-pocket expense for all needed services could be as little as your co-payment.
If you do not have health insurance, we offer CareCredit that will allow you to make 18 monthly payments with no interest. To apply for financing online and get instant approval in advance, just go to CareCredit.com.
Do most patients receive therapy and rehabilitative exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?
It all depends on your specific needs. Combining the decompression treatment with other therapies can create a synergistic effect and help the treatment to be much more successful and effective. Ice, heat, massage, trigger point therapy, stretch and relax therapy, muscle stimulation, chiropractic adjustments and active rehabilitation are used to reduce inflammation, assist the healing process and strengthen musculature to protect against future injury. Creating a treatment plan, including the specific therapies you need is the specialty of a doctor.
How do I get started?
We want to make it easy for you to learn if you are a candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Just call our office at (406) 721-5780 to arrange a free consultation with Dr. Chapman.
*Please remember to bring any MRI reports so Dr. Chapman can review them and best advise you about your treatment options.