Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 7/30/2008

Question
Where do I find one that has a compression machine and do you think they are any good..I have bad arthritis in my spine and pain every day.  the only thing that relieves it is sitting or laying down

Answer
Caroline,

I think you're referring to spinal "decompression" machines.

There is absolutely no evidence in the scientific literature that decompression machines are any better than other forms of traction which may offer comparable results at a fraction of the cost. The chief difference is the way in which they are marketed and sold to patients.

While some patients may benefit from any kind of traction, manufacturers of spinal "decompression" machines tend to make grand claims based on one rather faulty study. Moreover, doctors who purchase these machines (the cost may well exceed $100,000)tend to use scripted schemes to sell pre-paid plans to patients without any meaningful scientific rationale for recommending a certain number of pre-paid treatments.

Additionally, insurance companies generally refuse to pay for spinal "decompression" therapy for these reasons, causing some doctors to fraudulently bill for using them or requiring patients to pay out of pocket. Spinal decompression therapy schemes are the subject of fraud investigations by several state attorneys general.

My recommendation is to consult with a musculoskeletal-based chiropractor to discuss what, if any, treatment may be best for you. The chiropractor should take your case history, perform an appropriate physical examination, take appropriate radiographs or imaging if clinically indicated, or refer you to another facility for them, and discuss a treatment plan with you.

I hope this answers your question.