Will DTS therapy treatments hurt? Is it safe? DTS Therapy treatments are one of the most gentle and comfortable
therapies available. The treatments utilize equipment with proven safety and efficacy. Most patients report a
mild sense of stretch on their back or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions. The world’s largest
manufacturer of hospital based rehabilitation equipment, with over 58 years of experience, produces the DTS
system.
Is DTS therapy new?
Although traction therapy has been around for thousands of years, Decompressive Traction is relatively new.
Advances in equipment and procedure have dramatically improved effectiveness. DTS Therapy is the most
comprehensive program available, allowing the safe delivery of this previously hospital based therapy in our
office. Continual improvements in the delivery system and regular updates in protocol keep the DTS in the
forefront of non-invasive disc therapy. Each year over 50,000 patients are treated with DTS Therapy and that
number is growing.
Why is DTS Therapy more successful than other treatment options? DTS Therapy is a comprehensive program of the newest traction techniques and targeted “core” stabilization.
In addition we have other adjunctive treatments that have proven effectiveness in back care. It is this
multi-faceted approach that makes the overall treatment so effective. Additionally, discs have been shown to
be a predominate site of pain, so treating it is directly as possible makes sense. The blending of focused
traction to the site, rehabilitation to the supporting structures and overall strengthening of the global
musculature makes the treatment unique. DTS Therapy affects the disc as directly as possible without surgery.
Why the need for exercise and other therapies?
Along with the damage in the disc we also need to treat the supporting spinal muscles. A complete program
targeting the function of the stabilization muscles is a vital part of DTS Therapy. Heat, muscle stimulation,
and Ultrasound therapy can offer an additional benefit for inflammation and spasm reduction. Our hope is not
only to help heal the disc but enhance muscle control and support of the low back. A gradual breakdown to the
foundational support of your back is what puts undue stresses on the discs and leads to pain and loss of
function. Exercise and adjunctive therapies will assist in rehabilitating the structures.
Will my pain go away for good?
Although it is difficult to predict the future, our experience is that most patients do find long-term relief or
effective management of their pain when they complete the entire program of treatments. Regular home exercise
and periodic visits to our clinic will help in maintaining your spinal health and reduce the probability of
reoccurrence. As with any comprehensive rehabilitation program your continued home care, exercise, and
discretion in some daily activities is key to long-term relief.
How much will it cost?
Our office visits vary as to the extent of care needed (DTS Therapy, adjustments, muscle stimulation, ultrasound,
massage, etc.). We promise to recommend only the procedures necessary for your fullest recovery. You always
have the choice as to the extent of care. Our staff will review all costs, payment options and insurance coverage
upfront. We want to help, and believe finances shouldn’t stand between you and good health.
The three phases of DTS Therapy
-Treatment
-Stabilization of Structure
-Support of Muscular System
Can DTS Therapy help my pain?
Though each patient is different and no doctor can guarantee success, the clinical results of this type of
therapy have been effective in over 75% of patients treated. The common cause of many back conditions includes damaged
discs and poor spinal muscle control. Our treatment program addresses both of these core problems. The DTS System
creates a controlled unloading of the vertebra to decrease disc pressure thus increasing blood and nutrient exchange.
This exchange of fluids is something the damaged disc desperately needs to help it heal from the inside out.
Muscle strength, control, and endurance can all be improved with other facets of DTS Therapy that include specific
controlled exercises.
How long will my treatment program be?
It depends on the complexity and extent of the rehabilitation needed, however we typically treat 3 times a week
for 1 month, transitioning from passive to active treatments as you respond. The treatment is administered over a
reasonable time frame and your response is continually evaluated. Further treatments may be necessary or a
reduced frequency may be recommended at this time. The rehabilitative phase may include additional DTS Therapy
treatments, with spinal adjustments to enhance the results. Most patients are released from treatment after 8 weeks.