Hicksville Physical Therapy

Hicksville Physical Therapy’s state-of-the-art technology continues to be second to none. We are glad to offer our 3D spinal decompression unit. Our decompression unit stands out from its competition due to a unique feature that is designed to accommodate for proper and precise decompression at targeted discs by controlling multiple planes of axial decompression simultaneously. For example, an individual who has an L4-5 disc herniation with compression of the L5 nerve root will be decompressed at the proper flexion, axial rotation, and lateral flexion angles in order to open up the intervertebral space for maximal effectiveness and relief. Most other decompression units control targeted discs by controlling flexion angles in only one plane such as the DRX9000.

Our protocols for spinal decompression are so comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest research and technology that we are currently the only physical therapy facility on Long Island to offer the L-A-D-D-E-R program. LADDER is our acronym for Laser and Axial Decompression for Discs with Exercise and Rehabilitation. Our LADDER program will literally ascend you spinal condition to the next level toward recovery. At Hicksville Physical Therapy we use the same spinal decompression protocol that was used in a study that resulted in an astounding 86% success rate with decompression only. Combine this protocol with our Class IV laser, proper bracing and stabilization training, and hands-on manual techniques; you will now have an excellent formula for recovery.

Daniel Oest P.T.,M.P.T. works closely with numerous well known neurologists, neurosurgeons, spinal specializing orthopedists, and sports medicine physicians in rehabilitating pre and post-surgical spinal disorders. He has advanced experience in using the specialized McKenzie Extension Technique, Williams Flexion Technique, and the DonTigny Techniques to facilitate getting maximal patient recovery success. Daniel recently developed and owns the patent for a revolutionary device call “Correct-A-Back” that corrects pelvic and lower-back mal-alignments to alleviate back pain and it associated sciatica symptoms.

Spinal Decompression Therapy (DTS) is the most comprehensive program available, allowing the safe delivery of this (previously hospital based) procedure in our office. DTS treatments are one of the most gentle and comfortable therapies available. Patients often report that they fall asleep during treatment sessions. The worlds' largest manufacturer of hospital based rehabilitation equipment, with over 58 years of experience, produces the Spinal Decompression Therapy system.

A DTS treatment is a non-invasive disc therapy with more than 50,000 patients being treated annually. DTS is a comprehensive program of the newest traction techniques with targeted "core" stabilization. This therapy affects the disc as directly as possible without surgery. In the majority of cases, patients experience long-term relief of their pain when they complete the entire program of treatments, which consists of 20 office visits in close succession. In fact, clinical results of this type of therapy have been effective in over 70-75% of patients treated. A gradual breakdown to the foundational support of your back is what puts undue stress on the discs and leads to pain and loss of function. The DTS system creates a controlled unloading of the vertebrae to decrease disc pressure, thus increasing blood and nutrient exchange. This exchange of fluids is something that the damaged disc desperately needs to help it heal, from the inside out.

The three phases of Spinal Decompression Therapy are; Treatment, Stabilization and Support. We typically transition from passive to active treatments as you respond. Most patients are released from treatment after eight weeks. The best advantage is that you are able to continue working during the entire treatment program, so there is no loss of income.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does DTS Spinal Decompression Work?

The vertebre of the spine are slowly and methodically separated using the state-of-the-art DTS Spinal Decompression Unit. As the vertebrae are separated pressure is slowly reduced within the disc (intradiscal pressure) until a vacuum is formed. This vacuum “sucks” the gelatinous center of the disc back inside thereby reducing the disc bulge or disc herniation. Significant disc bulge reduction removes pressure off the spinal nerves and drastically reduces pain and disability. This “sucking” vacuum also pulls much-needed oxygen, nutrients and fluid into injured and degenerated discs allowing the healing to begin. The treatment motion is computer controlled to provide gentle and painless decompression of the injured spinal discs. Advanced DTS decompression techniques separate slowly and cycle between brief moments of pulling and relaxing (oscillation). This reduces protective muscle spasm that contributed to the poor success rate of outdated “traction” techniques. The DTS unit also incorporates advanced angulated elongation methods to target specific discs of the spine (for example: L5/S1 at the base of the spine). “Angulated Elongation” refers to the angle at which the healing decompression force is applied. This allows the treatment to rely less on brute force (separating multiple levels with high force) and more on finesse (using less decompressive force to focus on a single spinal segment) to rehabilitate individual spinal discs

How many spinal decompression sessions will be needed and are they painful?

The number of sessions needed and your specific treatment plan will be determined by your physical therapist after your examination. In almost all cases, the treatments are completely painless. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the spinal decompression session. Individual treatments take about 30-45 minutes. Typical therapy includes daily visits for the first two weeks, 3 times a week for the third week, and 2 times a week for the next couple of weeks, or as recommended by the physical therapist.

What type of decompression system is used in spinal decompression therapy?

We at Hicksville Physical Therapy have carefully investigated several decompression table options. After a significant amount of research, we selected the Eurotech DOC decompression system. This system is FDA registered and approved.

What Makes Spinal Decompression Therapy so Effective?

Professional skill combined with the table and computerized decompressive forces are the keys. Proper assessment, correct positioning and the use of preprogrammed patterns of distraction and relaxation may reduce disc pressure allowing necessary nutrients to enliven and accelerate disc healing.

Who can benefit from Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Anyone who has back pain or neck pain caused in whole or in part by a damaged disc may be helped by spinal decompression therapy. These conditions include herniated, protruding or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica or even failed surgery.

How long till I see results from Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Most patients report a reduction in pain after the first few sessions. Typically significant improvement is obtained by the second week of treatment.

Are there medical studies that document the effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Yes! One study documented by MRI 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" (greater than 70%) results after spinal decompression therapy.

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.

Do most patients receive therapy and rehabilitative exercises in addition to Spinal Decompression Therapy?

To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures are treated with passive therapies (ice/heat/muscle stimulation), and/or active rehabilitation in order to strengthen the spinal musculature.

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 516-935-2067 to arrange a free consultation. Please remember to bring any MRI reports so the physical therapist can review them and best advise you about your treatment options.