Colleges weigh in

Northwestern Health Sciences University includes spinal decompression therapy in its curriculum according to Don Eggebrecht, DC, professor of physical therapy modalities and extremities conditions.

He believes that students who are exposed to this type of therapy during their clinicals are probably more likely to incorporate the treatment into their own practices.

When students understand the language and the principles of the modality, they are prepared to filter out sales information, said Eggebrecht. They also need that knowledge to be able to communicate to their patients why this therapy is or is not appropriate in their individual cases.

Greg Page, DC, DACNB, clinic director at Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas, reports that Parker’s coursework uses the manual(s) from the table manufacturer. He believes spinal decompression is a “good treatment option with more benefits than risks for patients,” and a good option for any practice.

Like others, Page noted that insurance companies often do not reimburse for this treatment.