Frequently asked questions

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This page answers the most frequently asked questions from patients about neurovertebral spinal decompression. If your question is not covered here, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.

The practice is located at 9 Rue du Regard, 75006 Paris, in the 6th arrondissement.

Is neurovertebral spinal decompression painful?

Neurovertebral spinal decompression is generally not painful. The traction is progressive and controlled, with parameters adapted to each patient's tolerance. Most patients experience a pleasant stretching sensation during the session. If any discomfort occurs, the settings are immediately adjusted. Some patients report relief from the very first sessions.

How many decompression sessions are needed?

The standard protocol involves between 10 and 20 sessions, spread over several weeks. The initial frequency is 2 to 3 sessions per week, then sessions are gradually spaced out according to clinical progress. A thorough reassessment is carried out after 5 to 6 sessions to adjust the protocol. The exact number of sessions depends on the condition, its duration and the individual response to treatment.

Is spinal decompression covered by insurance?

Neurovertebral spinal decompression is performed as part of an osteopathy consultation at a fee of 100 euros. Osteopathy is not covered by the French national health insurance (Securite sociale). However, many supplementary health insurance plans (mutuelles) offer an annual allowance covering 1 to 5 osteopathy sessions. The amount reimbursed varies from 25 to 100 euros per session depending on the contract. It is advisable to check your supplementary health insurance contract and request an invoice after each consultation.

What is the difference between neurovertebral decompression and conventional traction?

Conventional traction applies a constant, linear force to the spine without precise segmental targeting. Neurovertebral spinal decompression uses a cyclical protocol with alternating phases of traction and release, at angles and forces specifically calculated to target a given spinal segment. This cyclical approach aims to bypass the reflex muscle contraction (myotatic reflex) and optimise the mechanical effect on the intervertebral disc by creating negative intradiscal pressure.

What are the contraindications for spinal decompression?

The main contraindications are:

• recent vertebral fracture or fracture undergoing consolidation
• spinal tumour or vertebral metastasis
• spinal infection (spondylodiscitis)
• severe spinal instability (advanced spondylolisthesis)
• severe osteoporosis
• pregnancy
• abdominal aortic aneurysm (for lumbar decompression)
• vertebrobasilar insufficiency (for cervical decompression)
• recent spinal metal implants

A thorough clinical examination is performed before every session to exclude these contraindications.

What results can be expected from decompression?

Results vary between patients and depend on the condition being treated. Published clinical studies report improvement in pain and function in the majority of patients treated for disc herniation or radiculopathy. Improvement generally affects radicular pain first (sciatica, cruralgia), followed by local pain (lumbar or cervical) and functional mobility. Results are not guaranteed and depend on many individual factors: herniation size, duration of symptoms, general condition and adherence to the protocol.

Can I exercise during a decompression protocol?

It is generally advisable to maintain moderate physical activity during the protocol, whilst avoiding movements that aggravate symptoms. Well-tolerated activities include:

• walking (daily, at least 30 minutes)
• swimming (backstroke preferred)
• stationary cycling or elliptical training
• gentle core strengthening and mobility exercises

It is recommended to temporarily avoid:

• running and impact sports
• heavy lifting and weight training
• combat and contact sports
• forced spinal rotation movements

Personalised advice is given at each session according to progress.

Do I need an MRI before starting decompression?

An MRI is not systematically required to begin treatment. The clinical examination often allows the diagnosis to be established and the indication for decompression to be determined. However, an MRI is recommended in the following situations:

• diagnostic uncertainty after the clinical examination
• neurological signs (motor deficit, significant sensory disturbance)
• lack of improvement after the first sessions
• history of spinal surgery
• suspicion of a serious condition (tumour, infection)

The MRI allows precise visualisation of the disc herniation, assessment of its impact on the nerve structures and confirmation of the decompression indication.

How long does a decompression session last?

The decompression session is integrated into an osteopathy consultation lasting approximately 45 minutes. The traction phase itself lasts between 15 and 25 minutes, with cycles of traction and release. The remaining time is dedicated to the clinical examination, complementary osteopathic treatment (addressing muscular tension, joint mobility) and personalised advice.

Is decompression suitable for elderly patients?

Decompression may be considered for elderly patients, subject to a thorough clinical assessment. The traction forces are adapted to the patient's bone and joint condition. Severe osteoporosis, spinal instability and certain advanced degenerative conditions are contraindications. In the absence of contraindications, decompression is generally well tolerated and can help relieve disc-related pain in patients of any age.

Can spinal decompression replace surgery?

Neurovertebral spinal decompression is a conservative approach that can be offered before considering surgery, when the indication is appropriate. In some cases, it achieves sufficient improvement to avoid an operation. However, surgery remains necessary in the following situations:

• progressive neurological deficit (worsening loss of strength)
• cauda equina syndrome (surgical emergency)
• failure of well-conducted conservative treatment over several months
• uncontrolled severe pain despite medical treatment

The goal is always to offer the most appropriate treatment for each situation, in collaboration with physicians and surgeons when necessary.