Herniated disc treatment NYC

Herniated disc treatment NYC-Spinal Decompression in Manhattan

Korean Study comparing Spinal Decompression Therapy with Intermittent Mechanical Traction reports results in favor of Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression!
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July 25, 2008: A study titled, “Effect of Spinal Decompression Therapy Compared with Intermittent Mechanical Traction in Lumbosacral Disc Herniation” is published in the June issue of the Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine. Dr. Hee-Sang Kim, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, compared the effects of intermittent mechanical traction with spinal decompression therapy (SDT) utilizing the DRX 3000®*. Thirty five patients experiencing low back pain with confirmed lumbosacral disc herniation on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) were selected to participate in the study. The patients were randomly assigned to SDT (20) and intermittent mechanical traction (15). Pre- and post-treatment visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores were utilized as the primary endpoint. The patients in the intermittent traction group exhibited a decrease in pain of 6.4 to 4.5 (-1.9) on a 0 to 10 scale. The patients in the SDT group revealed a much larger decrease in pain of 6.9 to 2.6 (-4.3). The authors conclude, “Spinal decompression therapy can be used as an effective treatment for discogenic low back pain without serious complications”.



The foregoing study was not sponsored by Axiom Worldwide. Axiom has made no determination of and makes no representations as to the design, scope or manner in which the study was conducted. Axiom Worldwide's referencing the presentation of the study should not be construed to mean that Axiom Worldwide represents that the study establishes any conclusive success rate or the efficacy of the device. The information is offered simply to demonstrate the exciting activity ongoing with the DRX9000. As always, individual patient’s experiences with the DRX9000 may vary and patients should always consult with their physician to determine whether treatment on the DRX9000 makes sense for them.



* The DRX3000 is the Korean version of the DRX9000 True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System

DRX 9000 Spinal Decompression-Herniated disc-Sciatica treatment

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Spinal Decompression and the DRX9000
Herniated disc treatment-Sciatica-bulging disc treatment- Spinal stenosis


Treatment of 94 Outpatients with Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain with the DRX9000: A Retrospective Chart Review
Charlotte Richmond, PhD, NEMA Research, Inc.
Alex Macario, MD, Stanford University
Joseph Pergolizzi, MD, Johns Hopkins University and NEMA Research, Inc.
Ninety-four low back pain patients diagnosed with herniated intervertebral discs and/or degenerative disc disease underwent spinal decompression treatment using the DRX9000 at one of 4 clinics for 8 weeks. Demographics, clinical characteristics, MRI findings, analgesic use, and activities of daily living were measured and reported here.
Other Spinal Decompression tables,especially new manufactures that make Range of motion tables have little to no research on the effectiveness on their tables.These new manufacturers claim superiority over tables that have been scrutinized and have been stood the test of time.I always let patient know that they need to do their homework and chose the "right" table.




PILOT: Effectiveness & Safety of Non-surgical Spinal Decompression
John Leslie, MD, Mayo Clinic Arizona
Charlotte Richmond, PhD, NEMA Research, Inc.
Alex Macario, MD, Stanford University
Christian Apfel, MD, University of California at San Francisco
Frank Florio, DC, Axiom Worldwide, LLC
Darren Clair, MD, Vibrance Medical
Martin Auster, MD, Johns Hopkins University
Joseph Pergolizzi, MD, Johns Hopkins University and NEMA Research, Inc.
Eighteen patients diagnosed with different intervertebral disc disorders, including one patient with failed back surgery, were treated using the DRX9000 for 6 weeks. Patient satisfaction scores were high with 88.9% indicating they would recommend the treatment to others.
No other spinal decompression table has this many studies confirming its effectiveness.


The inter-vertebral discs are the shock-absorbing cushions between each pair of vertebrae in your spine. Each disc has a strong outer ring of fibers, called the annulus, and a soft, gelatinous center, called the nucleus pulposus. The disc’s nucleus serves as the main shock absorber for the adjacent vertebrae.

When a tear occurs in the outer (annular) ring of the disc, the soft nucleus pulposus can protrude into the spinal canal. This common and painful disorder is called a herniated disc (also known as a ruptured disc or a prolapsed disc). The protrusion of the nucleus pulposus can press on a nerve root or the spinal cord. The damaged disc can also leak fluid, which may inflame nerve roots. For this reason, herniated discs can become extremely painful.

When a herniated disc occurs in the mid back it can be extremely serious. The smaller spinal canal in the thoracic (mid back) region leaves very little space around the spinal cord. In severe cases, the pressure of a herniated disc on the thoracic spinal cord can lead to paralysis below the waist. Fortunately, herniated discs much more commonly occur in the lumbar or cervical spine, where the spinal canal is larger.


Symptoms

In addition to back pain, a herniated disc can cause pain in other parts of the body. Because nerve roots carry signals to other parts of the body, a herniated disc that compresses a nerve root can cause pain in other body parts. For example, a herniated disc in the lower back may compress the sciatic nerve root, causing the pain and/or numbness known as sciatica, which runs down the back of the leg. A herniated cervical disc, on the other hand, can cause neck and arm pain. In fact, the hallmark of a herniated disc is radicular pain—pain that runs down into the arm or leg. This pain also may be associated with numbness or weakness in the same distribution.



Potential Causes

Regular wear and tear, degeneration or trauma can all cause a herniated disc. Like muscles and ligaments, discs heal from a tear by forming scar tissue, which is weaker than normal tissue.
A traumatic event can put too much pressure on a disc all at once, causing a sudden rupture. For example, falling from a ladder and landing in a sitting position applies a tremendous amount of sudden force on the spine, which can result in a broken vertebra or a ruptured disc. A smaller amount of force can also rupture a disc, especially if the tough outer ring (annulus) has been weakened by repeated injuries that have added up over time. A weakened disc may rupture while lifting or bending, low-impact activities that probably would not have caused a problem five years earlier. The effects of aging on the spine, which makes discs more vulnerable to ruptures, is the most common cause of disc herniation in the thoracic spine.


Diagnosis

To diagnose a herniated disc, the doctor will begin by obtaining a complete history of the problem and administering a physical exam. An MRI, the most common test used to diagnose a herniated disc, is painless and accurate.

Treatment Options

The treatment of a herniated disc depends on the symptoms. Since most herniated discs heal without surgical treatment, your doctor may first suggest careful monitoring. If the symptoms improve, no other treatment may be needed. However, if symptoms worsen, your doctor might suggest surgery.

Conservative Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe rest and observation to monitor the progression of the problem. Depending on the amount of pain, medications and/or physical therapy may be prescribed. If you have severe pain from nerve root irritation, your doctor may prescribe an epidural steroid injection (ESI). Unfortunately, this treatment succeeds in reducing the pain from a herniated disc in only about half of all cases.

Surgical Treatment

The traditional surgical treatment for a herniated disc is a combination of laminotomy and discectomy. In a laminotomy, an opening is made in the lamina (covering of the disc) to relieve pressure on the affected spinal nerves; a discectomy removes the herniated disc. Microdiscectomy achieves the same results as traditional discectomy, but uses a less invasive technique, enabling a faster recovery for the patient. Endoscopic Discectomy is an even newer, more technologically advanced version of the microdiscectomy. The specific nature of the herniated disc will determine what the best procedure will be
Spinal Decompression

Slipped Disc treatment NYC-Manhattan Herniated disc treatment

Manhattan Chiropractor comments on "slipped disc".
www.drshoshany.comMost of us have heard the term “slipped disc,” which refers to dysfunction or injury to a spinal disc.

This is actually an incorrect term, as the disc is incapable of slipping out like a child’s block slips out of the stack. The term herniation is correct, although there are others commonly used, and describes the pushing or protruding of disc material, possibly onto pain-sensitive structures.

Anyone who has experienced pain from a herniated disc will likely describe the sensation as excruciating and made worse with movement. Usually the pain will shoot down an arm or leg, as opposed to staying in one place. Also, numbness and/or tingling may be present. There are many courses of action that may be taken. Let’s light the path so you may find the way to prevention, and if needed, appropriate treatment.

The bones of the spine have spacers between them called discs. These maintain distance between important structures and provide a modicum of shock absorption. The disc has two parts: the outer ring and the inner jelly-like substance. Picture a jelly doughnut and you are not far off. The “jelly dougnhut” does not have a blood supply and this makes for a structure that struggles to meet its nourishment needs on a good day. On a bad day this amounts to a structure that is slow to heal once it has been injured. The good news is spinal discs often can heal with the right approach.

Sometimes discs are injured from catastrophic injuries, but usually injuries result from everyday activities, such as incorrect lifting, slipping on the ice, and other daily tasks that are too numerous to mention. It is my opinion that single events, such as incorrectly lifting a heavy object, are not as much the cause. Rather, poor habits over time add up until mechanical failure occurs. Examples include routinely bending at the waist to lift, poor workstation ergonomics, a general lack of physical fitness, loss of normal spinal curvature, and even chronic dehydration may be a factor. By far the most common area of spinal disc injury is in the low back, and only about 10 percent of injuries occur in the upper back and neck.

Many published scientific papers have documented the progression of disc problems. They often conclude that with conservative treatment, the disc will heal and symptoms will resolve. Seldom is surgery required. There are a few signs that merit immediate investigation: loss of bowel or bladder control, an inability to bring the top of the foot toward the shin, loss of feeling or weakness in an arm or leg, and pain accompanied by fever. This list is not all-encompassing, nor is it a substitute for the advice of a health care professional.

Spinal decompression therapy is one of the most effective and state-of-the-art types of non-invasive care for disc problems. A computer-driven unit is used to gently open the disc space, allowing hydration and nutrients to return to it and facilitate healing. MRI studies have demonstrated a retraction of disc material during this type of treatment. However, there is a certain criteria that must be met in order to be a qualified recipient of decompression therapy.If you would like to learn more how Spinal Decompression can help you visit my website www.drshoshany.com

Sciatica treatment

What You Need to Know About Sciatica
from a NYC Chiropractor
I have seen fantastic results using spinal decompression and core strengthing using the SpineForce. I wanted to provide additional information about Sciatica and other treatments that are being used to treat Sciatica.


About Sciatica
Sciatica Symptoms
Sciatica Treatment
The term sciatica describes the symptoms of leg pain and possibly tingling, numbness or weakness that travels from the low back through the buttock and down the large sciatic nerve in the back of the leg. The vast majority of people who experience sciatica get better with time (usually a few weeks or months) and find pain relief with non-surgical sciatica treatment. For others, however, sciatica can be severe and debilitating.

Common Causes of Sciatica:
lumbar herniated disc

spinal stenosis

degenerative disc disease

spondylolisthesisThe clinical diagnosis of sciatica is referred to as a "radiculopathy", which means simply that a disc has protruded from its normal position in the vertebral column and is putting pressure on the radicular nerve (nerve root) in the lower back, which forms part of the sciatic nerve.

An important thing to understand is that sciatica is a symptom of a problem — of something compressing or irritating the nerve roots that comprise the sciatic nerve — rather than a medical diagnosis or medical disorder in and of itself. This is an important distinction because it is the underlying diagnosis (vs. the symptoms of sciatica) that often needs to be treated in order to relieve sciatic nerve pain.

Sciatica occurs most frequently in people between 30 and 50 years of age. Often a particular event or injury does not cause sciatica, but rather it tends to develop as a result of general wear and tear on the structures of the lower spine.

Sciatica symptoms
For some people, the pain from sciatica can be severe and debilitating. For others, the pain might be infrequent and irritating, but has the potential to get worse.

While sciatica can be very painful, it is rare that permanent nerve damage (tissue damage) will result. Most sciatica pain syndromes result from inflammation and will get better within two weeks to a few months. Also, because the spinal cord is not present in the lower (lumbar) spine, a herniated disc in this area of the anatomy does not present a danger of paralysis.

Sciatica symptoms that may constitute a medical emergency include:
Progressive weakness in the leg
Bladder/bowel incontinence or dysfunction.
Patients with either of the above symptoms may have cauda equina syndrome and should seek immediate medical attention. In general, patients with complicating factors should contact their doctor if sciatica occurs, including people who: have been diagnosed with cancer; take steroid medication; abuse drugs; have unexplained, significant weight loss; or have HIV.

Sciatica medical definition: radiculopathy
To clarify medical terminology, the term sciatica (often misspelled as ciatica, cyatica or siatica) is often used very broadly to describe any form of pain that radiates into the leg. However, this is not technically correct. True sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched or irritated and the pain along the sciatic nerve is caused by this nerve (radicular pain) and is called a radiculopathy. When the pain is referred to the leg from a joint problem (called referred pain), using the term sciatica is not technically correct. This type of referred pain (e.g. from arthritis or other joint problems) is quite common.

Sciatica treatment
Practical point:
Symptoms of sciatica pain can vary greatly but usually decrease after a few weeks or months with non-surgical treatment.Sciatica nerve pain is caused by a combination of pressure and inflammation on the nerve root, and treatment is centered on relieving both of these factors. Typical sciatica treatment include:

Non-surgical sciatica treatments, which may include one or a combination of medical treatments and alternative (non-medical) treatments, and almost always includes some form of exercise and stretching. The goals of non-surgical sciatica treatment should include both relief of sciatica pain and prevention of future sciatica symptoms.
Sciatica surgery, such as microdiscectomy or lumbar laminectomy and discectomy, to remove the portion of the disc that is irritating the nerve root. This surgery is designed to help relieve both the pressure and inflammation and may be warranted if the sciatic nerve pain is severe and has not been relieved with appropriate manual or medical treatments.
Sciatica Causes
Sciatica refers to a set of symptoms which are usually caused by a problem in the lower back called a radiculopathy—when a nerve root that connects to the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. Common low back problems and other spinal conditions that can cause sciatica include:

Lumbar herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of the disc (nucleus pulposus) extrudes or “herniates” through the fibrous outer core (annulus) of the disc, irritating the contiguous nerve root as it exits the spine.In general, it is thought that a sudden twisting motion or injury can lead to an eventual disc herniation and sciatica.However, most discs weaken due to repetitive stress and the final result is a herniation. A herniated disc is sometimes referred to as a slipped disk, ruptured disk, bulging disc, protruding disc, or a pinched nerve and sciatica is the most common symptom of a lumbar herniated disc.

See also Lumbar disc herniation
Practical point:
Treatment of sciatica requires a diagnosis of the underlying cause of the sciatica pain.Lumbar spinal stenosis. This condition commonly causes sciatica due to a narrowing of the spinal canal. Spinal stenosis is more common in adults over age 60, and typically results from a combination of one or more of the following: enlarged facet joints, overgrowth of soft tissue, and a bulging disc placing pressure on the nerve roots as they exit the spine and causing sciatica.
Degenerative disc disease. While disc degeneration is a natural process that occurs with aging, in some cases one or more degenerated discs can also irritate a nerve root and cause sciatica. Degenerative disc disease is diagnosed when a weakened disc results in excessive micro-motion at the corresponding vertebral level and inflammatory proteins from inside the disc become exposed and irritate the area (including the nerve roots).

See also Degenerative disc disease
Isthmic spondylolisthesis. This condition occurs when a small stress fracture allows one vertebral body to slip forward on another vertebral body (e.g. the L5 vertebra slips over the S1 vertebra). With a combination of disc space collapse, the fracture, and the vertebral body slipping forward, the L5 nerve can get pinched as it exits the spine and cause sciatica.

See also Isthmic spondylolisthesis
Piriformis syndrome. The sciatic nerve can also get irritated as it runs under the piriformis muscle in the rear. If the piriformis muscle irritates or pinches a nerve root that comprises the sciatic nerve, it can cause sciatica-type pain. This is not a true radiculopathy (the clinical diagnosis of sciatica), but the leg pain can feel the same as sciatica caused by a nerve irritation.

See also Piriformis syndrome—another irritation to the sciatic nerve
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Irritation of the sacroiliac joint at the bottom of the spine can also irritate the L5 nerve, which lies on top of it, and cause sciatica-type pain. This is not a true radiculopathy, but the leg pain can feel the same as sciatica caused by a nerve irritation.

See also Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

It is important to know the underlying clinical diagnosis of the cause of sciatica, as treatments will often differ depending on the cause. For example, specific sciatica exercises are different depending on pathology causing the sciatica symptoms.
Sciatica Symptoms
For some people, sciatica pain can be severe and debilitating. For others, the sciatica symptoms might be infrequent and irritating, but have the potential to get worse. Usually, sciatica only affects one side of the lower body, and the pain often radiates from the lower back all the way through the back of the thigh and down through the leg. Depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected, the pain and other sciatica symptoms may also radiate to the foot or toes.

One or more of the following sciatica symptoms are typically experienced:

Pain in the rear or leg that is worse when sitting

Burning or tingling down the leg

Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot

A constant pain on one side of the rear

A shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up

With sciatica, low back pain may be present along with the leg pain, but usually the low back pain is less severe than the leg pain
Sciatica symptoms occur when the large sciatic nerve is irritated. The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the body and is composed of individual nerve roots that start by branching out from the spine in the lower back and combine to form the “sciatic nerve”.

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The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back at lumbar segment 3 (L3).

The sciatic nerve roots run through the bony canal in the spine, and at each level in the lower back a pair of nerve roots exits from the spine and then comes together to form the large sciatic nerve that runs all the way down the back of each leg.

Portions of the sciatic nerve then branch out in each leg to innervate certain parts of the leg (e.g. the calf, the foot, the toes).

The nerve roots that originate in the lower back are named for the upper vertebral body that they run between (for example, the nerve that exits at L4-L5 in the spine is named L4). The nerve passing to the next level runs over a weak spot in the disc space, which is the reason discs tend to herniate (extrude) right under the sciatic nerve root and can cause sciatica.

The sciatica symptoms (e.g., low back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, weakness) are different depending on where the pressure on the nerve occurs. For example, a lumbar segment 5 (L5) nerve impingement can cause weakness in extension of the big toe and potentially in the ankle (foot drop) (See diagram of the sciatic nerve).

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What You Need to Know About Sciatica
Sciatica Causes

Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatica Treatment
Sciatica Treatment More On This Topic:
Myths About Sciatica Treatment Options
Sciatic nerve anatomy and sciatica symptoms

Sciatica Treatment
For most people, the good news is that sciatica usually will get better on its own, and the healing process usually only takes a few days or weeks. Overall, the vast majority of episodes of sciatica pain heal within a six to twelve week time span.

However, occasional flare-ups of sciatic nerve pain may be an indication of a condition that should be managed so that it does not get worse over time.

For most, readily available pain management techniques and regular exercise will go a long way to remedying the situation.
For others, when the pain is severe or does not get better on its own, a more structured pain management program (including specific physical therapy and exercise), and possibly surgery, may offer the best approach to finding pain relief and preventing or minimizing future flare-ups of sciatica.

Non-surgical sciatica treatment
During an episode of sciatica, there are a number of non-surgical treatment options available to help alleviate the sciatic pain and discomfort.

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Heat/ice
For acute sciatica pain, heat and/or ice packs are most readily available and can help alleviate the leg pain, especially in the initial phase. Usually ice or heat is applied for approximately 20 minutes, and repeated every two hours. Most people use ice first, but some people find more relief with heat. The two may be alternated to help with sciatica pain relief.

See also Heat Therapy Cold Therapy


Sciatica Pain Medications
Over-the-counter or prescription medications may also be helpful in relieving sciatica. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or COX-2 inhibitors), or oral steroids can be helpful in reducing the inflammation which is usually a contributing factor in sciatica.

See also NSAIDs, Oral Steroids

Practical point:
Treatment of sciatica requires a diagnosis of the underlying cause of the sciatica pain.Epidural steroid injections for sciatica
If the sciatica pain is severe, an epidural steroid injection can be performed to reduce the inflammation. An epidural injection is different from oral medications because it injects steroids directly to the painful area around the sciatic nerve to help decrease the inflammation that may be causing the pain. While the effects tend to be temporary (providing pain relief for as little as one week up to a year), and it does not work for everyone, an epidural steroid injection can be effective in providing relief from an acute episode of sciatic pain. Importantly, it can provide sufficient relief to allow a patient to progress with a conditioning and exercise program.

See also Lumbar epidural steroid injections for low back pain and sciatica and Epidural Video

Alternative sciatica treatment
In addition to standard medical treatments, several alternative treatments have also been shown to provide effective sciatica pain relief for many patients. Three of the more common forms of alternative care for sciatica include acupuncture, massage therapy and chiropractic manipulation.

Acupuncture
The practice is centered on the philosophy of achieving or maintaining well being through the open flow of energy via specific pathways in the body. Hair-thin needles (that are usually not felt) are inserted into the skin near the area of pain and left in place for a few minutes to over half an hour. Acupuncture has been approved by the U.S. FDA as a treatment for back pain, and the National Institutes of Health recognized acupuncture as effective in relieving back pain, including sciatica.

Massage therapy
Certain forms of massage therapy have been shown to have a number of benefits for back pain, including increased blood circulation, muscle relaxation, and release of endorphins (the body’s natural pain relievers).

See also Massage Therapy for Lower Back Pain

Manual manipulation
Spinal adjustments and manual manipulation performed by appropriately trained health professionals (e.g. chiropractors, osteopathic physicians, physical therapists) are focused on providing better spinal column alignment, which in turn should help to address a number of underlying conditions that can cause sciatic nerve pain. Manual manipulation done to address the right indications by appropriately trained health professionals can create a better healing environment and should not be painful. In my Manhattan Spinal decompression practice I combine Medical massage, Spinal decompression and Core strengthing using the Spine Force and if patients are suffering I have a onsite MD that can provide pain management.

See also Chiropractic Treatments for Back Pain


Following initial pain relief, a program of physical therapy and exercise should usually be pursued in order to alleviate pain and prevent or minimize any ongoing sciatic pain.

Physical therapy and exercise


Practical point:
While is seems counter-intuitive, activity and exercise typically provides more sciatica pain relief than rest.When the sciatica pain is at its worst, patients may need to rest for a day or two, but resting for longer periods of time is usually not advisable. In fact, inactivity will usually make the sciatic pain worse. This is because regular movement and exercise is necessary to nourish the various structures in the low back and encourage the strength needed to support the low back.

Many sciatica exercises focus on strengthening the abdominal and back muscles in order to give more support for the back. Stretching exercises for sciatica target muscles that cause pain when they are tight and inflexible. When patients engage in a regular program of gentle strengthening and stretching exercises, they can recover more quickly from a flare up of sciatica and can help to prevent future episodes of pain.

Low impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming (or pool therapy) is also usually a component of recovery, as aerobic activity encourages the exchange of fluids and nutrients to help create a better healing environment. Aerobic conditioning also has the added benefit of releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers, which is a natural way to alleviate sciatic pain.
Sciatica Exercises

There are a number of types of non-surgical spine care professionals who specialize in treating sciatica symptoms, including chiropractors, physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists), pain medicine specialists, and physical therapists, all of whom have specialized training to provide pain relief and to help prevent future recurrences of sciatica. It is always advisable to have a qualified medical professional oversee any sciatica treatments

Sciatica Surgery
If the sciatica pain is severe and has not gotten better within six to twelve weeks, it is generally reasonable to consider spine surgery. Depending on the cause and the duration of the sciatica pain, one of two surgical procedures will typically be considered: a microdecompression (microdiscectomy) or an open decompression (lumbar laminectomy).

Microdiscectomy (microdecompression) for sciatica
In cases where the sciatica pain is due to a disc herniation, a microdiscectomy may be considered after four to six weeks if the pain is not relieved by non-surgical means. A microdiscectomy may be considered sooner than four to six weeks if the patient’s pain and disability is very severe. Urgent surgery is only necessary if the patient experiences progressive weakness in the legs, or sudden loss of bowel or bladder control.

A microdiscectomy is typically an elective procedure, and the patient’s decision to have surgery is based primarily on the amount of pain and dysfunction the patient is experiencing, and the length of time that the pain persists. Approximately 90% to 95% of patients will experience relief from their sciatica pain after this type of surgery.

See also Microdiscectomy

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Lumbar laminectomy (open decompression) for sciatica
Lumbar spinal stenosis often causes sciatica pain that waxes and wanes over many years. Surgery may be offered as an option if the patient’s activity tolerance falls to an unacceptable level. Again, surgery is elective and need only be considered for those patients who have not gotten relief from the sciatica after pursuing non-surgical treatments. The patient’s general health may also be a consideration.

After a lumbar laminectomy (open decompression), approximately 70% to 80% of patients typically experience relief from their sciatic nerve pain.

See also Laminectomy

Practical point:
To large extent, the patient’s individual situation will dictate his or her decision to have surgery or not.In 2005 the FDA approved a new surgery designed to relieve symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis called the X Stop. This procedure involves placing an implant in the very back of the spine that prevents the patient from leaning backwards, a position that typically causes pain in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

It is important to note that the decision whether or not to pursue surgical or non-surgical remedies for sciatica is almost always the patient’s decision. There are many considerations for the patient to take into account when deciding whether or not to have surgery.

Some patients may prefer to try as many different non-surgical treatments and remain with non-surgical care for as long as possible, and often they will figure out how to successfully manage their condition and keep painful symptoms at bay. For example, a patient who has intermittent flare ups of severe sciatica pain may find that a combination of initial rest and an epidural steroid injection followed by a gentle stretching and exercise program is effective in alleviating the pain as needed.

Some patients may have a personal preference or a life situation that will benefit from the more immediate pain relief that is usually afforded by surgery. For example, a parent with small children may not have the time to pursue non-surgical remedies and may need immediate pain relief in order to be able to take care of the children and household duties.

The important point is that it is almost always the patient’s decision whether or not to have the surgery, and the surgeon’s role should be to help inform that patient of his or her options to help the patient make the best choice.
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Spinal Decompression NYC, DRX 9000

Spinal Decompression Manhattan
www.drshoshany.comMRI of 69-year old male with low back pain, reveals an increase in disc height and a decrease in size of disc herniation after treatment with the DRX9000

It is estimated that Americans spend at least $50 Billion each year on low back pain and it is the second most common neurological ailment in the United States.¹

With these staggering numbers, the DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression SystemTM was developed to provide an effective non-surgical treatment alternative for chronic low back pain patients. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated the DRX9000's ability to potentially decrease analgesic use for chronic low back pain patients.

A newly published case report in Volume 2 Issue 1 of the European Musculoskeletal Review, demonstrates positive results utilizing the DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System. The report titled, "Managament of Low-Back Pain with a Non-surgical Decompression System (DRX9000) - Case Report" displayed the pre- and post-treatment MRI findings of a 69-year old male with low back pain.

Prior to the DRX9000 treatment, the patient described experiencing low back pain radiating in both legs. When asked to describe his pain intensity on a scale of 0-10, the patient rated his pain intensity at 10. After completion of 22 treatments, over a seven-week period, the patient reported a pain intensity level of 1.

What's more fascinating is the fact that four months after the initial visit, a follow up MRI revealed decreased herniation size and increased disc height at multiple lumbar levels.

The authors conclude the case report by stating, "This case report further builds on previous findings that have demonstrated improvements in disc morphology after treatment with the DRX9000."
Contact Dr. Shoshany in Manhattan for Spinal Decompression visit www.drshoshany.com for complete study on the DRX 9000 spinal decompression.

Spinal Decompression In New York City, DRX 9000

Spinal Decompression with the DRX 9000
Technology Investment continues at Axiom Worldwide; Fifth Patent Application published!

Axiom Worldwide continues their commitment to being a leader in the field of non-surgical pain relief. On December 27, 2007 the United States Patent Office published Axiom’s fifth patent application. This application is for a method of generating electrical stimulation waveforms as a therapeutic modality. This proposed patent may be viewed at:

http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PG01&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=%2220070299895%22.PGNR.&OS=DN/20070299895&RS=DN/20070299895.



The company, as part of its ongoing research and development effort, continues to invest heavily in innovation and technology. To safeguard this investment, Axiom is committed to protecting its intellectual property for the benefit of its customers.

It is a lengthy process to be awarded a patent and to date, Axiom’s patent applications remain pending.

Herniated disc treatment in Manhattan,NYC contact spinal decompression specialist
Dr. Steven Shoshany at www.drshoshany.com

Chiropractic NYC

Cervical Herniated disc can create a "double crush syndrome"

Spinal decompression Manhattan NYC-Herniated disc Center

Sciatica and Manhattan Spinal Decompression

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. Inflammation of the sciatic nerve is called sciatica...which means you have pain that travels down the leg. The sciatic nerve originates in the lumbar (lower) spine. It is created by branches of lumbar nerve roots.

Here is an excerpt from the great www.spine-health.com website entitled What You Need To Know About Sciatica:

The term sciatica describes the symptoms of leg pain and possibly tingling, numbness or weakness that travels from the low back through the buttock and down the large sciatic nerve in the back of the leg. The vast majority of people who experience sciatica get better with time (usually a few weeks or months) and find pain relief with non-surgical sciatica treatment. For others, however, sciatica can be severe and debilitating

Anyway...it is universally accepted that sciatica is usually the result of a bulging disc, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis. There are other causes also, such as piriformis syndrome, degenerative disc disease, facet syndromes, and vertebral subluxation. Sciatica is just a symptom...not the actual problem.

So, when it come to the treatment of sciatica, we need to look at correcting the problem...removing the mechanical pressure off of the sciatic nerve. Sometimes chiropractic adjustments can do this. Surgery obviously can...but what about the risks?

Well...this is where nonsurgical spinal decompression comes into play. Spinal decompression systems such as the Axiom Worldwide DRX9000 were designed and built specifically to treat neurovasclar compression syndromes such as bulging and herniated lumbar discs...a primary cause of sciatica. Sure the DRX9000
(watch DRX video) wont help every single person that does it...but nothing will.

Spinal decompression therapy has proven to be very safe and effective...and is gaining popularity every day...even amongst the medical profession.

There are very favorable preliminary research findings from spinal decompression studies currently underway at John Hopkins University, Duke University, and The Mayo Clinic (DRX9000 Special Report).

Herniated Lumbar Disc...Now What?




NYC Chiropractor and Herniated Disc Doctor Comments:

How do you know if you have a herniated disc in the low back? Well, you don't, unless you have the right tests done. Sure, you may have a lot of pain in your low back...it may be shooting down your leg...but you still may not have a disc herniation.

Here's another thing...you may have a lumbar disc herniation and have no symptoms at all. In fact, some people live and die with disc herniations and never even knew they had them.

But...for the purpose of this article...we will be concerned about low back pain patients that DO have signs and symptoms of herniated lumbar discs, and want to know if they have one. Here are the most common signs and symptoms:

Low Back Pain (can be severe)
Sciatica (leg pain)
Antalgia (listing to one side from muscle spasms)
Numbness & Tingling in the lower extremities
Night Pain
Abnormal Gait (can be painful to walk)
Hot or Cold sensations on the skin of lower extremities
Weakness of the Lower Extremities (leg, feet, or toes)
Loss of bladder or bowel function (this is a medical emergency)
Loss of balance
There are more...but I think I covered most of them. And these are what we call subjective complaints...things that you feel and that are happening to you.

There are orthopedic tests that your doctor will do to help determine if you have a herniated disc. If these tests are positive (objective findings) she may order an x-ray or an MRI. Really, it just depends on the severity of your condition and how many subjective and objective findings point to a herniated lumbar disc. An MRI is considered the gold standard for diagnosing a disc herniation.



So, you go to your doctor, they order an MRI, the MRI comes back positive for a disc herniation...say at L5, which is the most common disc to herniate..now what?

Well, this is when is gets interesting. There are so many factor to consider and so many opinions. If this is your first bout of back pain...it may just go away on it's own and never come back. But if you have been experiencing your low back pain for a long period of time, you will most likely need some form of treatment.

Personally, I would not rush to have back surgery. I would try the conservative approach first. I would visit a chiropractor. The body is an incredible machine and often times it can heal itself with a little help. Your spine may be out of alignment and some chiropractic adjustments is all you need.

Maybe you need some exercise as well...your chiropractor can help you with this...so can a physical therapist, or personal trainer.

Even very severe cases of lumbar disc herniation and spinal degeneration will often times respond to nonsurgical spinal decompression...a high tech disc herniation treatment that really works.

Sure, some disc pain patients don't respond to anything, even spinal decompression. For these very difficult cases surgery must be considered...but in my biased opinion...only as a last resort.
www.drshoshany.com

Herniated disc nyc

www.drshoshany.com

Herniated Disk NY, Herniated Disc NYC
A spinal disc herniation, incorrectly called a "slipped disc", is a medical condition affecting the spine, in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring of an intervertebral disc allows the soft, central portion to bulge out.

It is normally a further development of a previously existing disc protrusion, a condition in which the outermost layers of the fibrous ring are still intact, but can bulge when the disc is under pressure.

Some of the terms commonly used to describe the condition include herniated disc, prolapsed disc, ruptured disc, and the misleading expression "slipped disc." Other terms that are closely related include disc protrusion, bulging disc, pinched nerve, sciatica, disc disease, disc degeneration, degenerative disc disease, and black disc. The popular term "slipped disc" is quite misleading, as an intervertebral disc, being tightly sandwiched between two vertebrae to which the disc is attached, cannot actually "slip," "slide," or even get "out of place." The disc is actually grown together with the adjacent vertebrae and can be squeezed, stretched, and twisted, all in small degrees. It can also be torn, ripped, herniated, and degenerated, but it cannot "slip".

Causes of a disc herniation can include general wear and tear on the disc over time, repetitive movements, stress on the disc that occurs while twisting and lifting, or other injuries.

While the chief complaint for spinal disc herniation is lower back pain, symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location of the herniation and the types of soft tissue that become involved. They can range from little or no pain if the disc is the only tissue injured to severe and unrelenting neck or low back pain that will radiate into the regions served by an affected nerve root when it is irritated or impinged by the herniated material. Other symptoms may include sensory changes such as numbness, tingling, muscular weakness, paralysis, paresthesia, and affection of reflexes. If the herniated disk is of the Lumbar region the patient may also experience sciatica due to irritation of the sciatic nerve. Unlike a pulsating pain or pain that comes and goes, which can be caused by muscle spasm, pain from a herniated disc is usually continuous.

It is possible to have a herniated disc without any pain or noticeable symptoms, depending on its location. If the extruded nucleus pulposus material doesn't press on soft tissues or nerves, it may not cause any symptoms. It has been estimated that as many as 50% of the population have focal herniated discs in their cervical region that do not cause noticeable symptoms.

Typically, symptoms are experienced only on one side of the body. If the prolapse is very large and presses on the spinal cord or the cauda equina in the lumbar region, affection of both sides of the body may occur, often with serious consequences.


The presence of cauda equina syndrome (in which there is incontinence, weakness and genital numbness) is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate attention and possibly surgical decompression.

There are a variety of non-surgical care alternatives to treat the pain, including:
Spinal Decompression
Physical therapy
Osteopathic/chiropractic manipulations
Massage therapy
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Oral steroids (e.g. prednisone or methyprednisolone)
Epidural (cortisone) injection
Intravenous sedation, analgesia-assisted traction therapy (IVSAAT)
If pain is severe and continuous, or if there are neurological deficits, surgery may be recommended. Surgical goals include relief of nerve compression, allowing the nerve to recover, as well as the relief of associated back pain and restoration of normal function. Classical surgery for lumbar disc herniation is carried out by using a vertical median incision over the level which has an herniation. The dorsolumbar fascia is incised about 0.5 cm laterally on the affected side. The paravertebral muscles are dissected free from underlying bony structures, namely the spinous process and laminae, and retracted laterally. The level of disc herniation is identified using C-arm fluoroscopy or palpating the sacrum. The lamina is then fenestrated with bone rongeurs after which the exposed ligamentum flavum (the yellow ligament) is excised. The epidural soft tissue and venous plexus is gently explored to find the nerve root exiting from the associated neural foramina. The herniated disc is usually found beneath the nerve root. The nerve root is protected using root retractors. The posterior longitudinal ligament is incised with a fine blade and herniated disc material and degenerated nucleus pulposus are evacuated using different kinds of disc forcepses. Meticulous control of haemostasis is employed and irrigation with warm saline is essential. The muscle layers and the fascia are repaired, generally, without using a drain. The skin wound is closed. Surgical options include:

Microdiscectomy[12]
Lumbar fusion (lumbar fusion is only indicated for recurrent lumbar disc herniations, not primary herniations)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (for cervical disc herniation)
Disc arthroplasty (experimental for cases of cervical disc herniation)
Dynamic stabilization (dynamic stabilization is an experimental procedure with no data supporting its use for primary disc herniations)
However treatment with the DRX 9000 spinal decompression unit is non-invasive and has a published success rate.
www.drshoshany.com
The DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System™ was developed to provide a non-invasive option for discogenic low back pain. Researchers of a case report published in Volume 2 Issue 1 of the European Musculoskeletal Review state, “Evidence-based data that show the promising effects of DRX9000 on the safe and effective treatment of LBP [low back pain] continue to accumulate.” The report titled, “Management of Low-Back Pain with a Non-surgical Decompression System (DRX9000™) – Case Report” reveals the pre- and post-treatment MRI findings of a 69-year old male with low back pain. Prior to treatment with the DRX9000, the patient reported experiencing low back pain radiating into both legs. When asked to describe his pain intensity on a scale of 0-10, the patient rated his pain intensity at 10. The patient underwent 22 treatments over a seven-week period. Utilizing the same pain intensity scale the patient reported a pain level of 1 post-treatment. Four months after the initial visit a follow up MRI revealed decreased herniation size and increased disc height at multiple lumbar levels. The authors conclude, “This case report further builds on previous findings that have demonstrated improvements in disc morphology after treatment with the DRX9000.”

DRX 9000 NYC

Case Study reveals an increase in Disc Height and a decrease in size of Disc Herniation after treatment with the DRX9000

New, 2008: The DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System™ was developed to provide a non-invasive option for discogenic low back pain. Researchers of a case report published in Volume 2 Issue 1 of the European Musculoskeletal Review state, “Evidence-based data that show the promising effects of DRX9000 on the safe and effective treatment of LBP [low back pain] continue to accumulate.” The report titled, “Management of Low-Back Pain with a Non-surgical Decompression System (DRX9000™) – Case Report” reveals the pre- and post-treatment MRI findings of a 69-year old male with low back pain. Prior to treatment with the DRX9000, the patient reported experiencing low back pain radiating into both legs. When asked to describe his pain intensity on a scale of 0-10, the patient rated his pain intensity at 10. The patient underwent 22 treatments over a seven-week period. Utilizing the same pain intensity scale the patient reported a pain level of 1 post-treatment. Four months after the initial visit a follow up MRI revealed decreased herniation size and increased disc height at multiple lumbar levels. The authors conclude, “This case report further builds on previous findings that have demonstrated improvements in disc morphology after treatment with the DRX9000.”
www.drshoshany.com

Spinal decompression NYC, Herniated disc specialist

www.drshoshany.com
Spinal decompression NYC, Herniated disc NYC, Sciatica NYC
So many choices in Spinal decompression systems which one to go with?
I will make it easy for you, Last time I counted there where about 21 different spinal decompression systems currently available all different price points.
I still think that the DRX 9000 is the best system on the market, No I don't work for them. The reason being first and foremost, "the studies" all the major studies coming out on spinal decompression are done on the DRX 9000 system. Visit their website at DRX 9000.
It is also the most comfortable to the patient and it is user friendly to the doctor.
I remember when I first started with my 3D active trac, by the end of the day I needed Spinal decompression! The DRX is easy on the doctor and it is a sturdy machine that is built to last.
I have colleagues that bought knockoff's and are complaining to me everyday.
Why by a knockoff watch or a cheaper pair of sunglasses? I always invest in the best so I know I offer the best.
www.drshoshany.com
I combine Cox flexion distraction decompression with DRX 9000 and SpineForce 3D rehab along with Cold laser, this works great for my patients.
Any questions please feel free to email me at info@drshoshany.com
If you are in SOHO feel free to visit the new office

Spinal Decompression NYC

Study published in Pain Practice, indicates that chronic low back pain may improve with treatment on the DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System


The study titled, “Treatment of 94 Outpatients With Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain with the DRX9000: A Retrospective Chart Review,” indicates that patients with a mean pain duration of 535 weeks (Over 10 years) reported a mean verbal numerical pain intensity rating equal to 6.05 on a 0 to 10 scale prior to treatment with the DRX9000™.

Patients were treated at four randomly chosen clinics throughout the United States. They received 30-minute DRX9000 sessions daily for the first 2 weeks tapering to 1 session/week.



After the completion of the DRX9000 True Non-surgical Spinal Decompression System therapy, the mean verbal numerical pain intensity rating decreased to a statistically and clinically significant rating of 0.89.



Furthermore, patients also reported a decrease in analgesic use and improvement in activities of daily living.



The authors were able to follow-up at a mean 31 weeks with 29 patients and reveal mean values of 83% improvement in back pain and satisfaction of 8.55 on a 10-point scale. None of these 29 patients reported requiring surgery. The authors also acknowledge that there are other spinal decompression systems available commercially. However, they suggest that the design difference between these devices, “…may lead to differing physical responses to therapy, so studies of one type of apparatus should not readily be applied across all machines.”

The reason i posted this recent study is because I applaud Axiomworldwide for connecting with the mayo Clinic, Stanford Universty and John Hopkins university.
The only thing needed now is double blind clinical studies to confirm that Spinal Decompression on the DRX 9000 is effective enough to become the standard of care for treatment of the Herniated Disc.
www.drshoshany.com

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression therapy in Manhattan
Why the DRX 9000?
The DRX 9000 spinal decompression therapy is the most comfortable table for the patient. More studies have been done on this table than any other table combined.
When this form of spinal decompression is combined with a core strengthening program like the Huber Spine Force the results are impressive.
I have spent some time researching combining multi discipline approaches to achieve optimal results.
I currently offer Chiropractic Cox flexion distraction decompression which offer decompression in a multi- directional approach.

Spine Force and Spinal Decompression for Herniated disc

NYC ChiropractorSpine Force™ - Treating Spinal Injuries And Strengthening "Core" Spinal Muscles.



Why is there a Need for Core Spinal Stability?
The core of the body is the foundation of all bodily movements. As the nerve center of the body, it is where the power is derived from. For maximum health and wellness, the spine must be strong, flexible and unimpeded in its movements. The core spinal muscles connect to the spine, pelvis, and shoulders to create a solid foundation of support.













What is SpineForce™?
Spine Force is a groundbreaking technology developed in France by LPG that works on the Spine from the inside-out (CORE), analyzing, treating, and helping to prevent musculoskeletal diseases while promoting overall health and well-being. SpineForce™ is the only machine in the world capable of stimulating the deep muscles of the spine.


How Does SpineForce™ work?
Spine Force is the only machine in the world to strengthen the core spinal muscles. The oscillating platform identifies weaknesses and/or imbalances in the spine, creating personalized exercise protocols for patients’ specific needs. The protocols work in conjunction with most physician recommendations to strengthen core spinal muscles. This helps the CORE spinal muscles hold the vertebrae in the proper alignment relieving disc and nerve pressure. This can provide immediate, lasting and measurable results. SpineForce™ works up to 180 muscles at once, strengthening the muscle chains, optimizing coordination and stimulating balance and improving posture. It can be applied to almost anyone, regardless of age or physical shape; empowering them to reclaim and maintain their complete bodily homeostasis and achieve optimum health. Spine Force is the perfect partner for spinal manipulation and decompression therapy.


What are the Core Spinal Muscles?
The spine is held together by ligaments and muscles. The core spinal muscles are sometimes referred to as intrinsic stabilizer muscles; they protect the degree and angle of all spinal movements, acting as holders, receptors, and monitoring position. Up until now these muscles were almost impossible to analyze and strengthen.

Herniated disc treatment NYC using the DRX 9000

www.drshoshany.com


I am not sure if everyone saw the article in Chiropractic Products if not I posted it below.
http://www.chiropub.com/issues/articles/2008-03_02.asp
Issue: March 2008
Normal Version


New York DC Pioneers Nonsurgical Treatment
by Alan Ruskin

Steve Shoshany, DC, patents NYCDisc technique and turns decompression treatment into a practice success.

Steve Shoshany, DC, was concerned. After practicing for a while in the Greenwich Village area of New York City, he began losing patients, specifically those with the painful problem of herniated lumbar disks. "I wasn't able to help them using traditional chiropractic methods, so they were leaving for pain control specialists or surgery. didn't want to lose patients, and I wanted to help them."


Steve Shoshany, DC, explains that, in order for a lumbar disk to heal, it needs to open and expand so that blood, nutrients, and oxygen from surrounding tissue can reach it.
Shoshany, who opened his practice in 1999 after graduating from Life University in Atlanta in 1996, responded by exhaustively researching the problem, determined to come up with a solution. One of the most important results of his investigation was learning about the Axiom Worldwide DRX 9000, a table designed for spinal decompression. Shoshany calls the table "a benchmark, what other tables are compared to," and adds, "I only work with top-of-the-line equipment."

He noted that other chiropractors who were using less costly and what he considers inferior equipment were charging fees equal to his, but not getting the same good results. So Shoshany made use of the DRX 9000 a mandatory part of his treatment protocol. He also emphasizes correct analysis of the patient's MRI, a practice in which he is well skilled, having worked as an MRI technician for 6 years prior to beginning his chiropractic practice.


Steve Shoshany, DC, shown bracing a patient, has built a successful practice based around comprehensive decompression techniques.
Other key aspects in his treatment regimen are nutrition, neuromuscular reeducation (core stabilization and core strengthening), bracing, and follow-up with physical therapy. Another chiropractic table, the Cox Flexion Distraction, is also utilized.

Additionally, Shoshany is careful about which patients he selects to undergo treatment. "A key to getting excellent results is being picky with patients," he unabashedly declares. "If a patient has metal implants in their spine, or is morbidly obese, I don't take them. Instead I refer them to pain-management specialists, where they might get epidural injections or selective nerve blocks. In some extreme cases, when they have extruded or fragmented disks, I advise them to consider surgery. Being able to recognize whether patients should or should not have surgery is what makes a better clinician."

The Key Modality for Pain Relief
When treating patients, Shoshany makes frequent use of the H-Wave, a high-voltage patented wavelength that aids in fluid exchange. He also utilizes interferential therapy and the cold laser. But the central modality in his treatment plan is definitely the DMX 9000 table, which works by decompressing and unloading the lumbar spine, creating a vacuum that allows the disk to open up and expand so that blood, nutrients, and oxygen from surrounding tissue can reach it, thus allowing the disk to heal on its own.

Looking for a Pain-Treatment Niche?
Electrical stim, iontophoresis, and ultrasound, from manufacturers such as Amrex Electrotherapy Equipment, EMPI, and the Chattanooga Group, help activate patients’ bodies to relieve pain and promote healing, while giving chiropractors several methods to combine or use separately to build their practice niche.
"A lumbar disk," Shoshany explains, "is an avascular structure, meaning it doesn't have a good blood supply. So if the disk is injured, it will get progressively worse. Blood supply to the disks generally stops when the individual is about 19 to 20 years old. After that, it has to be rejuvenated, which stimulates the collagen to strengthen the fibers that contain the lesion. In time, with decompression, proper exercise, and nutrition, the disk will heal."

Citing one of his cases, Shoshany relates the testimonial of a female patient who was injured while performing duties on her job as a police officer. "Loretta" was thrown to the ground while making an arrest and suffered a severely herniated L5 disk, which put pressure on her S1 nerve root. "For 8 months she had shooting pain down both legs, couldn't sleep, could barely walk, and was taking Vicodin and Percocet like crazy, as well as epidural injections. She couldn't work and was on disability. She went to three different surgeons and all said they wanted to operate, recommending microdisectomy of the disk."


Steve Shoshany, DC, stands beside the DRX 9000 system, which works by decompressing and unloading the lumbar spine.
But Loretta, a mother to four children, didn't want to be further incapacitated by surgery, so she searched online and came across Shoshany's Web site at www.DrShoshany.com. After consulting with him, she decided to make the 250-mile round trip drive from Cold Springs, NY, three times per week. After just a few sessions, "I was able to straighten up and walk, sometimes with no pain at all." A month later she was sleeping through the night, and now, 4 months later, she is working again, walking 3 miles several times per week, and is totally off pain medication. She credits Shoshany with "quite literally restoring the quality of my life." Shoshany says that a post-treatment MRI showed a "dramatic 50% increase in the height of the disk."

Nutrition for Recovery
Shoshany believes nutrition is very important to recovery, but he doesn't make any stipulations regarding diet. Instead, he advises his decompression patients to drink 10 to 12 glasses of water per day and take supplements, especially Omega 3, as well as MSM, glucosamine chondroitin, calcium, and magnesium. The herbs Devil's Claw and Boswellia are also recommended for their anti-inflammatory effects.

Exercise is also an important part of Shoshany's rehabilitation regimen. Core stabilization is the key, and devices like the Powerplate (www.powerplate.com) and the "wobble chair" are excellent for helping to strengthen and stabilize the lumbar region. Shoshany describes the modality of the wobble chair as "similar to a physio ball, but with vibrations. The idea is to rehydrate the disk." Yoga-type exercises also are strongly recommended.

The Secret of Success

Interested in marketing decompression? Visit the August 2007 Archive.
When it comes to "turning lemons into lemonade," Shoshany must be regarded as a master. From being dismayed over being unable to help and subsequently losing patients with herniated disks, he has created a thriving practice, 50% of which is devoted exclusively to spinal decompression. He now heads a team of five chiropractors and in 2006 had his technique patented under the name "NYCDisc." His practice has become so busy that he recently added 4,000 square feet by acquiring the former New York University Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic, which he is in the process of remodeling and plans to open later in 2008.

Shoshany's stated goal is "to become the leader in spinal decompression in New York City." To judge not only by his practice, which has a "92% success rate," but also by the calls and inquiries he gets from other doctors, orthopedists as well as chiropractors, including those in foreign countries who visit his office to learn about his technique, he is already well on his way.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New York Chiropractor, DRX 9000 Manhattan,Graston Technique,Active Release technique

What is Active Release Technique?
ART is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles.
This Technique really helped me with my left shoulder problem.
As a Chiropractor in NYC I continually re injure my shoulder adjusting patients.
www.drshoshany.com
The ART technique helped me so since then I began to study on how it can help my patients that suffer with shoulder, knee and other difficult to treat areas.
If you are seeking out ART treatment in NYC, Manhattan call (212) 645-8151.
www.drshoshany.com

DRX 9000 NYC

New York Chiropractor Pioneers Nonsurgical Treatment
by Alan Ruskin
www.drshoshany.com
Steve Shoshany, DC, patents NYCDisc technique and turns decompression treatment into a practice success.

Steve Shoshany, DC, was concerned. After practicing for a while in the Greenwich Village area of New York City, he began losing patients, specifically those with the painful problem of herniated lumbar disks. "I wasn't able to help them using traditional chiropractic methods, so they were leaving for pain control specialists or surgery. didn't want to lose patients, and I wanted to help them."


Steve Shoshany, DC, explains that, in order for a lumbar disk to heal, it needs to open and expand so that blood, nutrients, and oxygen from surrounding tissue can reach it.
Shoshany, who opened his practice in 1999 after graduating from Life University in Atlanta in 1996, responded by exhaustively researching the problem, determined to come up with a solution. One of the most important results of his investigation was learning about the Axiom Worldwide DRX 9000, a table designed for spinal decompression. Shoshany calls the table "a benchmark, what other tables are compared to," and adds, "I only work with top-of-the-line equipment."

He noted that other chiropractors who were using less costly and what he considers inferior equipment were charging fees equal to his, but not getting the same good results. So Shoshany made use of the DRX 9000 a mandatory part of his treatment protocol. He also emphasizes correct analysis of the patient's MRI, a practice in which he is well skilled, having worked as an MRI technician for 6 years prior to beginning his chiropractic practice.


Steve Shoshany, DC, shown bracing a patient, has built a successful practice based around comprehensive decompression techniques.
Other key aspects in his treatment regimen are nutrition, neuromuscular reeducation (core stabilization and core strengthening), bracing, and follow-up with physical therapy. Another chiropractic table, the Cox Flexion Distraction, is also utilized.

Additionally, Shoshany is careful about which patients he selects to undergo treatment. "A key to getting excellent results is being picky with patients," he unabashedly declares. "If a patient has metal implants in their spine, or is morbidly obese, I don't take them. Instead I refer them to pain-management specialists, where they might get epidural injections or selective nerve blocks. In some extreme cases, when they have extruded or fragmented disks, I advise them to consider surgery. Being able to recognize whether patients should or should not have surgery is what makes a better clinician."

The Key Modality for Pain Relief
When treating patients, Shoshany makes frequent use of the H-Wave, a high-voltage patented wavelength that aids in fluid exchange. He also utilizes interferential therapy and the cold laser. But the central modality in his treatment plan is definitely the DMX 9000 table, which works by decompressing and unloading the lumbar spine, creating a vacuum that allows the disk to open up and expand so that blood, nutrients, and oxygen from surrounding tissue can reach it, thus allowing the disk to heal on its own.

Looking for a Pain-Treatment Niche?
Electrical stim, iontophoresis, and ultrasound, from manufacturers such as Amrex Electrotherapy Equipment, EMPI, and the Chattanooga Group, help activate patients’ bodies to relieve pain and promote healing, while giving chiropractors several methods to combine or use separately to build their practice niche.
"A lumbar disk," Shoshany explains, "is an avascular structure, meaning it doesn't have a good blood supply. So if the disk is injured, it will get progressively worse. Blood supply to the disks generally stops when the individual is about 19 to 20 years old. After that, it has to be rejuvenated, which stimulates the collagen to strengthen the fibers that contain the lesion. In time, with decompression, proper exercise, and nutrition, the disk will heal."

Citing one of his cases, Shoshany relates the testimonial of a female patient who was injured while performing duties on her job as a police officer. "Loretta" was thrown to the ground while making an arrest and suffered a severely herniated L5 disk, which put pressure on her S1 nerve root. "For 8 months she had shooting pain down both legs, couldn't sleep, could barely walk, and was taking Vicodin and Percocet like crazy, as well as epidural injections. She couldn't work and was on disability. She went to three different surgeons and all said they wanted to operate, recommending microdisectomy of the disk."


Steve Shoshany, DC, stands beside the DRX 9000 system, which works by decompressing and unloading the lumbar spine.
But Loretta, a mother to four children, didn't want to be further incapacitated by surgery, so she searched online and came across Shoshany's Web site at www.DrShoshany.com. After consulting with him, she decided to make the 250-mile round trip drive from Cold Springs, NY, three times per week. After just a few sessions, "I was able to straighten up and walk, sometimes with no pain at all." A month later she was sleeping through the night, and now, 4 months later, she is working again, walking 3 miles several times per week, and is totally off pain medication. She credits Shoshany with "quite literally restoring the quality of my life." Shoshany says that a post-treatment MRI showed a "dramatic 50% increase in the height of the disk."

Nutrition for Recovery
Shoshany believes nutrition is very important to recovery, but he doesn't make any stipulations regarding diet. Instead, he advises his decompression patients to drink 10 to 12 glasses of water per day and take supplements, especially Omega 3, as well as MSM, glucosamine chondroitin, calcium, and magnesium. The herbs Devil's Claw and Boswellia are also recommended for their anti-inflammatory effects.

Exercise is also an important part of Shoshany's rehabilitation regimen. Core stabilization is the key, and devices like the Powerplate (www.powerplate.com) and the "wobble chair" are excellent for helping to strengthen and stabilize the lumbar region. Shoshany describes the modality of the wobble chair as "similar to a physio ball, but with vibrations. The idea is to rehydrate the disk." Yoga-type exercises also are strongly recommended.

The Secret of Success

Interested in marketing decompression? Visit the August 2007 Archive.
When it comes to "turning lemons into lemonade," Shoshany must be regarded as a master. From being dismayed over being unable to help and subsequently losing patients with herniated disks, he has created a thriving practice, 50% of which is devoted exclusively to spinal decompression. He now heads a team of five chiropractors and in 2006 had his technique patented under the name "NYCDisc." His practice has become so busy that he recently added 4,000 square feet by acquiring the former New York University Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic, which he is in the process of remodeling and plans to open later in 2008.

Shoshany's stated goal is "to become the leader in spinal decompression in New York City." To judge not only by his practice, which has a "92% success rate," but also by the calls and inquiries he gets from other doctors, orthopedists as well as chiropractors, including those in foreign countries who visit his office to learn about his technique, he is already well on his way.
www.drshoshany.com

What is Degerative Disc Disease?

www.drshoshany.com
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) occurs when the spinal disc...the shock absorber like pad in between the vertebrae...wear abnormally. This usually happens when the spine is out of alignment (degenerative disc disease video).

The same thing can happen to the tread on your tire when the front end of your car is out of alignment. Both a tire and a spinal disc require proper positioning in order to function at optimum levels.

However...unlike the tire on your car...the spinal disc is living tissue and is capable of healing and repairing itself to a certain extent. In fact, this is why spinal harnessing technology such as the DRX9000 lumbar decompression system was created.

With your car...you can align the front end and rotate or replace the tires. You can't do that with your spinal disc...you only have one set to work with. However, in many cases you can re-align the spine and re-position the disc. Once a degenerating cervical or lumbar disc is repositioned, it is better able to function as intended, often times regaining lost height and water content. We can certainly slow down the degenerative process.

The DRX9000 lumbar decompression and the DRX9000c cervical decompression systems were designed and built to do this. This type of nonsurgical treatment for chronic back and neck pain has become very popular lately...even within the medical community.

WARNING: This will not work for everyone. It just depends how bad the disc degeneration is. Other factors, such as multiple levels of involvement, disc herniations, spondylolisthesis, and osteoporosis, may actually disqualify a patient from spinal decompression therapy.

Each case needs to be looked at individually. Often times the patient and doctor will manage the expectations together so that even a little bit of improvement is considered a successful outcome in severe cases.

The age and overall physical condition of the patient plays a big roll as well.

Recently, there has been some exciting research that has come out. It is available in the new Spinal Decompression Special Report. This report highlights the benefits of spinal decompression with the DRX9000, and paves the way for double blind studies. The future looks bright for nonsurgical spinal decompression with the DRX9000.
If you are in New York City and have DJD and are interested in DRX 9000 visit www.drshoshany.com

DRX 9000 nyc

www.drshoshany.com
Call (212) 645-8151 for Chiropractic, Massage, Physical therapy, Pain management in Manhattan NYC.I was interviewed by Chiropractic Products magazine for the March issue.The topic was of course Spinal decompression.
I have not read it but once I get it I will post the link to the Chiropractic Products website. This is such a hot topic for Chiropractors. NYC Chiropractors are starting to add this modality into their practice. I often refer patients that come to me to Chiropractors that are closer to them, I am in Greenwich Village in Manhattan. I do not like for patients to spend to much time traveling to me because sitting is the worst position for the Low Back.
If you live or work near Midtown Manhattan or Lower Manhattan and have back pain or sciatica consider treatment like Chiropractic, Medical Massage, Spinal Decompression.
Medical massage is covered by most major medical plans.
Treatment on The DRX 9000 may be partially paid my most major medical carriers.

Chiropractic NYC is covered by BC/BS, Cigna,Aetna, United and many more.
If you want to be seen today call our office at (212) 645-8151 and we can verify if your insurance will cover Massage, Chiropractic, Physical therapy.