Lordex Decompression Therapy Frequently Asked Questions

At the Lordex Spine Center of Athens

You’re more than a patient, you’re our guest. It is our goal to help you improve your overall quality of life. To speak with a Lordex Professional call the Lordex Spine Center at 570-882-9009 for a complimentary initial evaluation:

What is Lordex Decompression Therapy?

The Lordex Lumbar Spine System uses a special kind of FDA-approved therapy called “closed reduction decompression” that alleviates pain by taking pressure off the nerves and discs in the lower back, or lumbar region of the spine. Lordex Decompression is a non-surgical procedure that safely and effectively treats low back pain and leg pain associated with: Disc herniations, Disc bulge, Sciatica, Stenosis, Arthritis, Degeneration, Facet syndrome, Spondylolisthesis, Osteoporosis and Pre and Post Surgery.

What is SRT?

Strength Restoration Therapy (SRT) is a closed stabilization process achieved through increased para-spinal muscle strengthening. Because herniated discs are generally thought to be a result of mechanical instability and disuse atrophy, SRT is an important component to restore spinal muscle support.

How does Lordex Decompression Therapy work?

Non-surgical decompression creates negative pressure inside the injured disc which draws water from the surrounding tissue back into the disc allowing the disc to re-hydrate and heal. It relieves pain by reducing herniations, reducing bulges and enlarging the disc space. Lordex works by applying a gentle force at the correct angle through the use of a specifically designed decompression unit that alleviates pressure off the pain sensitive nerves.

Lordex treatment is gentle and effective.

The technology utilized in the Lordex system is advanced and recognized. The Lordex Decompression protocol involves two primary therapies, the Lordex Decompression Unit and the RX1 Strength Restoration Machine. The Lordex treatment relieves pressure by focusing on a specific disc, or vertebrae which is the source of the pain. Introduction of kinetic activity and strength restoration therapy provides tremendous stability to the lumbar spine. Lordex guests at the Lordex Spine Center of Athens have been able to enjoy a clinical success rate of 89%, greatly enhancing their overall quality of life.

Will I experience discomfort during the treatments?

The majority of our patients find the treatments very comfortable and often sleep through the entire treatment.

Will I experience discomfort after the treatments?

Decompression treatment does not lead to increased pain after treatments. You will be given a home care protocol to follow to avoid exacerbation of your pain while completing the decompression treatment.

How long will it be before I notice results?

Some patients experience relief on the very first visit. On average most patients start to notice significant relief between the 7^th and 12^th visits.

How soon can I return to work or normal activity?

Depending on the individual case many patients return to work and normal activity within 2-3 weeks.

Will there be any side effects?

There are no side effects to the Lordex Decompression Therapy. The results are healthier discs, stronger core musculature to support the spine, and improved flexibility.

How long do the results last?

The results of Lordex will last as long as the patient continues with their home care protocol and re-hydration/maintenance care.

How is the Lordex System different from other machines?

Decompression is only 50% of the total procedure. Stabilization and improved functional capacity is necessary to slow, stop or reverse mechanical spinal pathology. Lordex is a “system” that combines the LDU (decompression) and RX1 (stabilization) designed to produce long term results. Other units that focus on decompression alone fail to address the underlying cause of mechanical instability.

Is Lordex Decompression Therapy as effective as surgery?

In our clinic we have experienced an 89% success rate. Research reveals that the effectiveness of low back surgery is approximately 50%.

How is Lordex Decompression Therapy different than surgery?

Surgery of the spine is serious, yet sometimes unavoidable. Fortunately, less than 1% of all low back pain sufferers are surgical candidates. But just because you don’t need surgery doesn’t mean you don’t need treatment. Lordex is the logical choice. Lordex provides successful long-term relief of back pain, but from the standpoint of a non-operative closed procedure. Surgery is "open reduction" decompression. Lordex is "closed reduction" decompression. Surgery is "open fusion" for stabilization. Lordex is "closed stabilization" through increased paraspinal muscle strengthening.

How long does the Lordex treatment take?

The complete program requires 20-30 hours over a six to eight week period.

Is the Lordex program right for everyone?

Low back pain caused by fractures, tumors, infection or metabolic disease processes are not candidates for the program. We will determine your course of treatment and whether you are a candidate. While some people have conditions that exceed the limits of any procedure available, the current literature suggest that 90-92% of patients with herniated disc, degenerative joint disease, sciatica, facet syndrome and bulging disc are potential candidates for the Lordex program.

How do I know if I am a candidate for Lordex Decompression Therapy?

To determine if you are a Lordex candidate you will undergo a thorough examination and evaluation, including a review of your most recent MRI and any other diagnostic tests that you have received. Our reputation and your health are based on your results and we are not willing to compromise either.

How long has Lordex Decompression Therapy been around?

Lordex Decompression was developed in the late 1980's by a Dr. John Boren. He and a team of professionals have continuously refined the equipment and treatment protocols to improve patient’s outcome and results.

What are my limitations after decompression therapy and how long will I be out of work?

Rehabilitative exercises to strengthen and stabilize the spine as well as flexibility exercises begin the very first day of your treatment. Each case is different so the limitations will be recommended on an individualized basis. We recommend that patients return to normal activities gradually to allow for maximum healing. Patients that have desk jobs can normally return to work within a few days and patients with physically strenuous jobs should wait four to six weeks, depending on the job. You may return to work with restrictions for those first six weeks and then return to normal activity there after.

Can you help me if I have had failed back surgery?

Yes, we typically can – in fact, a large percentage of our patients have had failed back surgery or have new spine conditions due to adhesions and scar tissue from past surgeries.