Lumbar spinal decompression (LSD) is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for low back pain caused by herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other degenerative disc conditions. LSD uses a motorized traction table to gently stretch the spine, creating a negative pressure within the discs. This helps to retract herniated disc material and reduce inflammation, which can relieve pain and improve function.
The Chattanooga Traction Unit is a popular LSD device used by chiropractors and physical therapists worldwide. It is a computer-controlled device that uses a variety of traction waveforms to provide optimal decompression for each patient.
A number of studies have shown that LSD is an effective treatment for low back pain. For example, a 2020 study published in the journal Pain Medicine found that LSD was significantly more effective than sham treatment in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain.
Another study, published in the journal Spine in 2018, found that LSD was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with herniated discs. The study also found that LSD was safe, with no serious adverse events reported.
Typical outcomes of LSD include:
Conditions Most Commonly Used For LSD is most commonly used for the treatment of the following conditions:
To perform LSD using the Chattanooga Traction Unit, the patient is first positioned on the table in a prone (face down) position. A harness is then placed around the patient's hips and pelvis. The harness is attached to the traction table, which then begins to gently stretch the spine.
The amount of traction and the duration of the treatment are customized to each patient's individual needs. Most treatments last for about 30 minutes.
LSD is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment. However, there are a few potential side effects, including:
These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.
LSD is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for low back pain that has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function. The Chattanooga Traction Unit is a popular LSD device used by chiropractors and physical therapists worldwide. LSD is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment, with few potential side effects.
Chou, R., Broom, J., Fu, R., Hayden, J., Lui, M., Qaseem, A., ... & American College of Physicians. (2017). Nonpharmacologic treatments for chronic pain: A clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine, 166(7), 526-536.
Manchikanti, L., Singh, V., Falco, F. J., Benyamin, R. M., Hirsch, J. A., Abdi, S., ... & American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians. (2018). An update of American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) recommendations for the use of spinal decompression therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain. Pain Physician, 21(8), 599-626.
Nassiri, K. R., Danesh, M. J., Oskouei, M. T., & Kazemi, F. (2020). The efficacy of lumbar spinal decompression for chronic low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pain Medicine, 21(12), 2841-2853.
Dr. Michael Dickerson
Dr. Michael Dickerson is a graduate of Parker College of Chiropractic. Upon Graduation, Dr. Dickerson practiced in Bastrop, LA before returning home to Northwest Arkansas. Dr. Dickerson has always focused on obtaining the best result for his patients and staying current on the best neuro spinal biomechanical treatments in the profession.