Refer to the Glossary of Terms for More Information

IDD therapy works much the same as traditional traction except for:

Two important and crucial distinctions:

First, IDD (Intervertebral Decompression Device) will differ from traction in that traction will begin the loading process or “pull” by going from 0 pounds to X pounds in a straight line. This allows the spinal muscles to anticipate the direction of pull and respond with increased tone and resistance. This will increase pain substantially since we are now pulling on spastic and inflamed tissue. Compare this to IDD therapy which will load the spine in a sinusoidal curve so that the body cannot anticipate and resist. Instead the lumbar spinal muscles will relax and true decompression of the spine proceeds.

Secondly, once the predetermined amount of tension has been achieved with traditional traction it can only hold a static pull. Whereas IDD will oscillate with five pounds positive and then negative. This pumping action enhances the circulation of blood, water and nutrients through the vertebral body endplates and will inhibit neuronal firing of spasmodic muscles . Now a true spinal decompression can occur. This is significant for pain relief and healing

These unique capabilities of IDD therapy are incredibly safe and effective to alleviate back or neck pain by removing the pressure being placed on the impinged nerve and inhibiting muscle tension.

Remember, a nerve can be impinged in two ways.

Degenerative disc disease leads to foraminal stenosis and subsequent nerve impingement

A disc can bulge or herniate into the foraminal space and impinge the exiting nerve root. Either way, IDD can effectively open up the spinal vertebrae to create a negative pressure between the vertebrae and encourage the disk to migrate back into position or in the case of IDD open up the foramen and relieve the nerve pain.