Decompression FAQ

What do the studies show?

Results of clinical studies demonstrate that VAX-D is an effective treatment for the management of patients with chronic neck and back pain

An outcome study on 778 patients and a prospective randomized controlled study both reported approximately 70% success rates and improvements in functional outcomes for patients suffering from disc related chronic lox back pain.

A recent tow and one-half year study sponsored by Independence Blue Cross has also confirmed the effectiveness of VAX-D. The purpose of the study was to determine short-and long-term outcomes after VAX-D treatments in a large sample (296 subjects) of patients with activity-limiting low back pain that had failed at least two previous, non-surgical treatment. The study showed that patients had significantly improved pain and disability scores at end of treatment, at 30 days and at 180 days post-discharge.

The textbook 'The Practice of Minimally Invasive Spinal Techniques -2005 Edition' (published by the American College of Physicians and The American Academy of the Minimally Invasive Spinal Medicine & Surgery) has now devoted an entire chapter to VAX-D treatment. The textbook state: "VAX-D should not be considered traction in the traditional sense but as decompression. VAX-D is the only non-invasive treatment that has been proven to decompress the disc."

Is Traction the same as Decompression?

No. With traction, weights are added to the end of the traction bed, which, in turn, adds tension to a harness secured around the patient's pelvis, lengthening the spine. The intention is to relieve pressure, but the linear force of this traction can produce spasming, which may lead to greater injury.