The VAX-D machine is a decompression table that assists the body in re-hydrating the discs that are between each of your vertebrae. It is a computerized system that puts a back and forth tension on a harness in the hopes of pulling the bulge back into the disc and taking pressure off any nerves being impinged.
What Is VAX-D?
VAX-D stands for vertebral axial decompression therapy and is a non-surgical, non-invasive, spinal decompression. It is a high-tech replacement for your old inversion boots and the water bag over the door traction systems of old.
The treatments with VAX-D last about 45 minutes, five days a week for 20 sessions. You can do it twice a day for faster improvement
Who Is a Candidate for VAX-D?
Terms used to describe a spinal problem that is creating low back (lumbar) and neck (cervical) pain range from being called a bulging disc, slipped disc, degenerative disc disease, herniated disc, disc protrusion, sciatica or nerve impingement all can create immense pain and be life-altering.
How Does VAX-D Work?
You are put in a pelvis harness and lie face down (for lumbar) on a traction table that is a split bench table, you hold onto hand grips with your arms extended above your head and the harness attaches to the bottom part of the table. If you feel any discomfort you let go of the hand grips and the treatment ceases.
The VAX-D system is computerized and when treatment starts the split table separates to traction the spine and give it a slow stretch.
The VAX-D implements a stretch and relax concept, the stretch lasts for about a minute, then you rest for a minute and it goes back and forth that way for the 45 minute session. The hope is that a suction is created inside the disc, this allows the bulging area to get sucked back in and nutrients can get in and around the disc and plump it back up.
During the cervical VAX-D, you wear a harness/cervical collar for treatment and you use the same collar for the entire series of treatments along with additional wear time of a few hours after each treatment to assist the body in stabilizing the cervical area.
How Could I Have Prevented This?
The thing to understand is that the disc is a shock absorber for the spine, and we are constantly inflicting downward pressure on it. When you use an inversion table you are opening up the same areas as the VAX-D but you're doing it as a preventative or as a final attempt before VAX-D. Most people try the inversion table first and then the VAX-D at rehab facilities. Please check with your doctor or therapist as some spine issues may worsen with any form of traction.
Summary
Preventative treatment using an inversion table is a great choice for a healthy person and it feels so good as your spine opens up and stretches and realigns your hips.
The downside to VAX-D is how time consuming it is, fivce days a week for four to five weeks is hard if you're working. If but if you're already in trouble, trying any alternative treatments prior to surgery is hopefully pursued and many insurance companies will pay for it.
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