These 21 cases represent patients treated at West Hills Chiropractic Pain Center with non-surgical spinal decompression (VAX-D).
They span herniated discs, bulging discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, failed back surgery syndrome, cervical disc conditions, and auto-accident injuries across ages 22 to 86. Each demonstrates the value of accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment when surgery is not the first choice.
Whether you’re in Huntington, Long Island, or elsewhere on the North Shore, the principles shown here apply: correct the underlying mechanical cause, stabilize the spine, and restore function without the risks of surgery.
21Documented Cases
22–86Age Range
94–97%Avoided Surgery
8+Conditions
Real outcomes. Real patients. Measurable change.
Case 1Robert47, Male • Construction foreman • HuntingtonAvoided Surgery ↗
Avoided Surgery
Pain 9 → 1 • ODI 68% → 12%
The Problem
L5-S1 extrusion 9mm with S1 compression. Severe left-leg sciatica to foot, numbness, couldn’t stand longer than 10 minutes. Failed 3 epidurals. Was scheduled for microdiscectomy.
Treatment Plan
24 sessions over 8 weeks, 85–95 lbs tension
Core stabilization + ergonomic retraining
Pain centralized by week 2; foot numbness resolved by week 6
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
9 → 189%
Disability (ODI):
68% → 12%82%
MRI: 4mm reduction in extrusion. Cancelled surgery. Full return to construction work at 10 weeks.
Significant functional recovery with near-complete pain resolution — surgery cancelled.
Clinical Insight
Large extrusions (9mm) respond when disc material remains connected. Symptom centralization is an early positive sign.
“I was one week away from surgery when I started VAX-D. By week three, I knew I’d made the right call.”
Case 2Robert54, Male • IT Manager • MelvilleCancelled Surgery ↗
Cancelled Surgery
Pain 6 → 1 • ODI 38% → 6%
The Problem
L4-L5 bulging disc, 3mm broad-based bulge compressing thecal sac. Constant dull ache with intermittent sharp pain during prolonged sitting. Failed 8 weeks of PT and 2 epidural injections. Surgeon recommended microdiscectomy.
Treatment Plan
24 sessions over 8 weeks, 65-75 lbs traction
Seated posture retraining and McKenzie extension protocol
Core stabilization with emphasis on transverse abdominis activation
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
6 → 183%
Disability (ODI):
38% → 6%84%
Full return to desk work with zero limitations. MRI: bulge reduced to 1.5mm with improved disc hydration.
Returned to full activity with measurable disc reduction — surgery cancelled.
Clinical Insight
Bulging discs respond well to targeted decompression because the annular fibers remain intact. Consistent traction combined with postural correction can reduce bulge size without surgical intervention.
“My surgeon told me it was only going to get worse. Eight weeks later, I cancelled the surgery.”
Case 3James44, Male • Accountant • MelvilleOff Opioids ↗
Off Opioids
Pain 8 → 2 • ODI 62% → 16%
The Problem
Recurrent L5-S1 extrusion 7mm, 14 months after microdiscectomy. Desk job devastated by inability to sit >20 minutes. Sleeping 3–4 times per night. On Percocet. Failed 2 post-surgical epidurals.
Treatment Plan
28 sessions over 10 weeks, 65–85 lbs (conservative for surgical history)
Eliminated opioid use. Full work schedule restored. MRI: 3mm reduction.
Eliminated opioid dependency with sustained functional improvement after failed surgery.
Clinical Insight
Post-microdiscectomy recurrence can respond to VAX-D when no fusion hardware is present. Conservative tension with gradual progression is essential.
“After my surgery failed, I thought I’d be on painkillers forever. The team took their time — and it worked.”
Case 4Jennifer41, Female • Paralegal • HuntingtonCancelled ACDF Surgery ↗
Cancelled ACDF Surgery
Pain 8 → 2 • NDI 58% → 12%
The Problem
Two-level cervical herniation from auto accident: C5-C6 protrusion + C6-C7 extrusion. C7 radiculopathy. Right arm pain to fingers, grip weakness, 4–5 headaches/week. Couldn’t type >30 minutes. Neurosurgeon recommended ACDF.
Treatment Plan
22 sessions over 8 weeks, cervical protocol 12–18 lbs
Full neurological recovery with cervical disc reduction — ACDF surgery cancelled.
Clinical Insight
Cervical herniations from auto accidents respond well to cervical decompression protocol. Cervical VAX-D uses 12–18 lbs vs. 50–100+ lbs lumbar.
“The accident took my life away for six months. I couldn’t hold a coffee cup. VAX-D gave it all back.”
Case 5Susan55, Female • Hairdresser (30 Years) • Huntington StationReturned to Work ↗
Returned to Work
Pain 7 → 2 • ODI 46% → 14%
The Problem
DDD at L5-S1, bilateral foraminal narrowing. Standing pain after 20 minutes. Considering early retirement. 3 chiropractors over 5 years, 2 rounds of epidurals.
Treatment Plan
24 sessions over 8 weeks, 60–75 lbs
SI joint focus + anti-gravity mat + Pilates-based core
Standing tolerance improved within weeks
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
7 → 271%
Disability (ODI):
46% → 14%70%
Working full days without pain breaks. MRI showed disc rehydration with improved T2 signal.
Restored occupational function with documented disc rehydration on imaging.
Clinical Insight
DDD with bilateral sciatica from foraminal narrowing responds through disc rehydration and height restoration, reopening foraminal space.
“Thirty years on my feet and I thought my working days were over. Now I’m booking clients on Saturdays again.”
Case 6Karen34, Female • Stay-at-Home Mom (3 Kids) • West HillsReturned to Family Life ↗
Fully functional — lifting, carrying, bending. Returned to running at 10 weeks.
Near-complete resolution of symptoms — returned to full maternal activity without restriction.
Clinical Insight
Postpartum disc herniation is underdiagnosed. Young, hydrated discs respond quickly to decompression.
“I have three kids under five. This treatment gave me back to my family.”
Case 7Linda67, Female • Retired Teacher • Cold Spring HarborWalking Without a Cane ↗
Walking Without a Cane
Pain 6 → 2 • ODI 48% → 20%
The Problem
Multi-level DDD at L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1. Chronic 8+ years. Used cane for walks, couldn’t garden. Rejected fusion.
Treatment Plan
25 sessions over 9 weeks, 55–70 lbs (conservative for bone density)
Gentle mobilization + aquatic exercise referral
Walking without cane by week 4
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
6 → 267%
Disability (ODI):
48% → 20%58%
Discontinued cane. Resumed gardening. Reduced Celebrex to as-needed.
Regained independent mobility and reduced medication reliance at age 67.
Clinical Insight
Multi-level DDD in older patients responds when tension is appropriately reduced. Even Grade 4 discs can improve through rehydration.
“At 67, everyone told me I had to live with the pain. I didn’t believe that, and I was right.”
Case 8Anthony38, Male • Sales Manager / Basketball Player • CommackFull Motor Recovery ↗
Full Motor Recovery
Pain 9 → 1 • ODI 72% → 8%
The Problem
Acute L4-L5 extrusion 8mm with developing foot drop during basketball. Surgeon recommended urgent discectomy. Couldn’t dorsiflex left foot fully.
Treatment Plan
20 sessions over 6 weeks, 75–90 lbs
Motor function tested every session (critical monitoring)
Dorsiflexion improving by week 2
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
9 → 189%
Disability (ODI):
72% → 8%89%
Full motor recovery (5/5 dorsiflexion). MRI: reduced to 4mm. Returned to basketball at 14 weeks.
Full motor recovery with return to competitive athletics — surgery avoided.
Clinical Insight
Acute extrusions with emerging motor deficits need careful session-to-session monitoring. Healthy disc baseline + acute injury often responds dramatically.
“They told me I needed emergency surgery or I might never walk right again. I’m back on the court now.”
Case 9Nicole29, Female • Registered Nurse • Dix HillsReturned to Work ↗
Returned to Work
Pain 8 → 1 • ODI 46% → 6%
The Problem
Rear-end collision at 35mph. Developed progressive L5-S1 disc protrusion (4mm) with right-sided radiculopathy. ER visit, PCP prescribed muscle relaxants and rest. Pain escalated over 6 weeks.
Treatment Plan
22 sessions over 8 weeks, 60-70 lbs traction
Acute-phase pain management first 2 weeks, then progressive decompression
Hip flexor and piriformis release protocol
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
8 → 188%
Disability (ODI):
46% → 6%87%
Full return to nursing shifts. Running resumed at 12 weeks. MRI: protrusion reduced to 1.5mm.
Complete functional recovery from auto-accident disc injury — returned to nursing.
Clinical Insight
Delayed-onset disc injuries after auto accidents are common. Early imaging and intervention prevent chronic progression.
“I thought I was fine after the accident. Three weeks later I could barely walk.”
Case 10Maria52, Female • Registered Nurse • Dix HillsEliminated Daily NSAID Use ↗
Eliminated Daily NSAID Use
Pain 7 → 2 • ODI 52% → 18%
The Problem
L4-L5 protrusion 5mm, bilateral leg pain. Couldn’t complete 12-hour nursing shifts. Daily NSAIDs for 2 years. Previous chiropractic (3 months, no improvement) + 1 epidural (2 weeks relief only).
Treatment Plan
20 sessions over 7 weeks, 70–80 lbs
Body mechanics training + core strengthening
Off NSAIDs completely by week 5
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
7 → 271%
Disability (ODI):
52% → 18%65%
Eliminated NSAID dependency. Full nursing schedule restored.
Eliminated long-term NSAID dependency with sustained return to full work capacity.
Clinical Insight
Healthcare workers face chronic spinal disc stress. Decompression + ergonomic retraining enables both pain relief and medication discontinuation.
“I lift patients for a living. VAX-D gave me my career back.”
Case 11David50, Male • Long-Haul Truck Driver • Deer ParkReturned to Work ↗
Returned to Work
Pain 6 → 1 • ODI 44% → 10%
The Problem
L4-L5 central protrusion 6mm, bilateral leg numbness after 2+ hours driving. Worried about losing CDL. 4 months PT (plateau), 1 epidural (6 weeks relief).
Treatment Plan
22 sessions over 7 weeks, 80–90 lbs
Lumbar support for truck cab + McKenzie exercises + hip flexor stretching
Resolved nerve symptoms and preserved commercial driving certification.
Clinical Insight
Sustained sitting maintains herniation pressure through axial loading. Decompression creates negative intradiscal pressure to reverse this.
“When my legs started going numb behind the wheel, I thought my career was over. West Hills got me back on the road.”
Case 12Michael72, Male • Retired Electrician • West HillsWalking Tolerance Restored ↗
Walking Tolerance Restored
Pain 5 → 2 • ODI 56% → 24%
The Problem
Moderate central stenosis L4-L5 from DDD with facet hypertrophy. Neurogenic claudication — could walk only 1 block. Two surgeons recommended laminectomy (refused). 4 epidurals over 3 years, on Gabapentin.
Treatment Plan
28 sessions over 10 weeks, 50–65 lbs (low tension)
Flexion-based exercises + stationary bike
Walking expanded progressively
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
5 → 260%
Disability (ODI):
56% → 24%57%
Walking 6+ blocks without stopping. Reduced Gabapentin. Discontinued cane for daily activities.
Meaningful functional gain with restored walking tolerance — avoided laminectomy.
Clinical Insight
Spinal stenosis secondary to DDD can benefit at advanced ages. Goal is significant functional improvement rather than complete imaging reversal.
“Two surgeons said operate. I said no. Best decision I ever made. I walk to the deli every morning now.”
Case 13Gerald71, Male • Retired Teacher • CommackWalking Tolerance Restored ↗
Walking Tolerance Restored
Pain 7 → 2 • ODI 52% → 14%
The Problem
Moderate central canal stenosis L3-L4, L4-L5 with ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Could walk only 1.5 blocks before bilateral leg heaviness and numbness. Declined laminectomy. Failed 12 weeks of PT.
Treatment Plan
28 sessions over 10 weeks, 55-65 lbs traction
Flexion-based decompression positioning
Walking endurance protocol with graduated distance increases
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
7 → 271%
Disability (ODI):
52% → 14%73%
Walking tolerance increased from 1.5 blocks to 8+ blocks without rest. Leg numbness resolved.
Restored independent walking capacity with resolution of neurogenic claudication.
Clinical Insight
Flexion-based decompression can open the central canal enough to relieve neurogenic claudication and restore functional walking tolerance.
“They told me at my age, this was as good as it gets. I’m walking two miles now.”
Case 14Jason24, Male • College Wrestler • Huntington StationReturned to Competition ↗
Returned to Competition
Pain 9 → 1 • ODI 56% → 4%
The Problem
L5-S1 posterior disc herniation (6mm) sustained during wrestling. Severe central back pain with bilateral leg symptoms. University health center recommended surgery.
Treatment Plan
20 sessions over 6 weeks, 75-85 lbs traction
Sport-specific rehab protocol starting week 4
Progressive return-to-sport testing
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
9 → 189%
Disability (ODI):
56% → 4%93%
Full return to wrestling competition at 10 weeks. MRI: herniation reduced to 2mm. Competed full season without recurrence.
Near-complete recovery with return to full competition — no surgical intervention.
Clinical Insight
Young athletes with acute disc herniations often have the best decompression outcomes. Surgery should be a last resort in this population.
“My coach thought my career was over. Ten weeks later I was back on the mat.”
Case 15Patricia46, Female • Office Manager • MelvilleCancelled ACDF Surgery ↗
Cancelled ACDF Surgery
Pain 7 → 2 • NDI 52% → 14%
The Problem
C6-C7 extrusion 4mm with left C7 radiculopathy and motor involvement. Left arm pain to ring fingers, tricep weakness. Neurosurgeon recommended ACDF.
Treatment Plan
22 sessions over 7 weeks, cervical protocol 14–20 lbs
Full neurological recovery with headache resolution — ACDF surgery declined.
Clinical Insight
C6-C7 is the most common cervical herniation. Forward head posture from desk work is often a contributing factor — ergonomic correction is essential.
“I couldn’t push open a door or type an email without pain. Seven weeks later, I’m back to 100%.”
Case 16Amanda34, Female • Financial Analyst • HuntingtonPain-Free at Work ↗
Pain-Free at Work
Pain 5 → 1 • ODI 30% → 4%
The Problem
4+ years of progressive lower back pain. Bilateral facet arthropathy L4-L5, L5-S1 with mild disc desiccation. 10+ hours daily seated posture. Three different PTs, massage, and acupuncture — temporary relief only.
Ergonomic workstation overhaul and hourly movement protocol
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
5 → 180%
Disability (ODI):
30% → 4%87%
Pain-free through full workday. No recurrence at 6-month follow-up.
Resolved chronic pain through root-cause correction — pain-free at 6-month follow-up.
Clinical Insight
Not all chronic back pain involves disc herniation. Facet-mediated pain from prolonged sitting responds to decompression combined with postural intervention.
“I thought back pain was just part of having a desk job. Turns out it doesn’t have to be.”
Case 17Diane49, Female • Yoga Instructor • Cold Spring HarborReturned to Teaching Yoga ↗
Returned to Teaching Yoga
Pain 7 → 1 • ODI 42% → 8%
The Problem
L3-L4 protrusion 5mm (upper lumbar — femoral nerve pattern). Knee buckling from quad weakness, reduced patellar reflex. Couldn’t teach yoga. Misdiagnosed as hip bursitis for 3 months.
Quad strength 5/5, patellar reflex restored. Full yoga teaching resumed. MRI: protrusion reduced to 2.5mm.
Restored motor function and returned to physically demanding occupation after misdiagnosis.
Clinical Insight
Upper lumbar herniations (L3-L4) present with femoral nerve pain (anterior thigh), not sciatica, and are frequently misdiagnosed as hip pathology. Proper diagnosis is the critical first step.
“Three months of hip treatments for a disc problem. Once they found the real cause, I was better in weeks.”
Case 18Thomas47, Male • Electrician • FarmingdaleResolved Leg Pain ↗
Resolved Leg Pain
Pain 7 → 1 • ODI 44% → 8%
The Problem
14 months of left-sided sciatica (L5 distribution) with negative MRI for disc herniation. Piriformis syndrome suspected but injections provided only 3 weeks of relief. EMG confirmed sciatic nerve irritation.
Treatment Plan
20 sessions over 7 weeks, 60-70 lbs traction targeting L4-L5 foraminal space
Deep tissue protocol for piriformis and external rotators
Neural flossing exercises
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
7 → 186%
Disability (ODI):
44% → 8%82%
Complete resolution of radiating leg pain. Full return to manual labor. No recurrence at 9-month follow-up.
Complete resolution of chronic sciatica despite negative MRI findings.
Clinical Insight
Sciatica doesn’t always originate from a visible disc herniation. Foraminal narrowing, piriformis entrapment, and subtle disc bulges can all compress the sciatic nerve.
“The MRI showed nothing wrong, but the pain was very real. They finally figured out where it was coming from.”
Case 19Frank61, Male • Retired FDNY Firefighter • NorthportOff Opioids ↗
28 sessions over 10 weeks, 55–75 lbs (conservative for post-surgical spine)
Targeted both L3-L4 and L4-L5 + aquatic therapy
Coordinated Tramadol taper with pain management
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
7 → 271%
Disability (ODI):
54% → 22%59%
Walking 8+ blocks. Plays with grandchildren. Tapered off Tramadol completely.
Eliminated opioid use with functional recovery after failed laminectomy.
Clinical Insight
Failed back surgery without fusion hardware is treatable. Adjacent segment degeneration after laminectomy responds to decompression.
“After the failed surgery, I couldn’t walk to the corner. West Hills gave me a second chance without another operation.”
Case 20Patricia62, Female • Retired Administrative Assistant • Cold Spring HarborAvoided Second Surgery ↗
Avoided Second Surgery
Pain 8 → 2 • ODI 50% → 12%
The Problem
Prior L4-L5 microdiscectomy 3 years ago. Reherniation at same level (5mm) with new L3-L4 bulge (2mm). Surgeon recommended revision surgery plus possible fusion.
Treatment Plan
26 sessions over 9 weeks, 55-65 lbs traction
Scar tissue mobilization protocol
Segmental stabilization for adjacent segment protection
Outcome
Objective Results
Pain (NPRS):
8 → 275%
Disability (ODI):
50% → 12%76%
Avoided revision surgery. Left leg numbness resolved. Walking 3+ miles daily. MRI: reherniation reduced to 2.5mm.
Avoided revision surgery with measurable disc reduction and symptom resolution.
Clinical Insight
Post-surgical reherniation doesn’t automatically require revision surgery. Conservative decompression can reduce reherniated material while protecting the surgical site.
“I already went through one surgery. Turns out, I did have a choice.”
Case 21Thomas28, Male • Personal Trainer • HuntingtonReferred to Surgery ↗
Referred to Surgery
VAX-D alone: 10 → 5 • Final: Pain 1, ODI 6%
The Problem
L5-S1 sequestration — 5mm free fragment in spinal canal. Acute during deadlift. Severe right S1 radiculopathy, couldn’t stand. Surgeon recommended urgent microdiscectomy.
Pain improved 10→5 but free fragment remained on imaging
Clinical decision: proceed with microdiscectomy at week 5
Outcome
Objective Results
VAX-D alone:
10 → 550%
After surgery + VAX-D:
5 → 180%
Final: NPRS 1, ODI 6%. Returned to training at 16 weeks (modified).
Partial response to conservative care — appropriate surgical referral with successful combined outcome.
Clinical Insight
Sequestered disc fragments are the most challenging for decompression. Honest patient selection is critical — when conservative care reaches its limit, surgical referral is appropriate.
“VAX-D helped, but my case needed surgery. What I respect is they told me honestly when it was time.”
Aggregate Results Across All 21 Cases
7.4
Average Starting Pain (NPRS)
1.7
Average Ending Pain (NPRS)
77%
Average Pain Improvement
94–97%
Surgery Avoidance Rate
22–86
Age Range (Years)
Start your recovery
Find Out If This Can Work For You
These cases show what is possible when the underlying cause of pain is treated correctly. Most patients we see have already tried physical therapy, injections, or chiropractic care without lasting results. The next step is determining whether your condition is a fit for spinal decompression.
If you’re not a candidate, we will tell you — and point you in the right direction.
30–45 minute evaluation. No pressure. Clear answer on whether this is right for you.
Most patients invest less than the cost of surgery, injections, or long-term medication.
Results vary significantly depending on your specific diagnosis, disc condition, duration of symptoms, age, prior treatments, and compliance with the treatment plan. A proper evaluation and MRI review is the only way to estimate your potential outcome.
What if spinal decompression doesn’t work for me?
That’s addressed in Case #21. If VAX-D reaches its limit or imaging shows a sequestered fragment that won’t respond, we refer for surgical evaluation. We’re committed to honest assessment and the right treatment path for your specific situation.
How do I know if I’m a candidate?
The best candidates have herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or mild spinal stenosis with recent or ongoing back pain. You need an MRI to confirm disc involvement. Red flags that exclude candidacy include spinal fracture, infection, malignancy, severe osteoporosis, or sequestered fragments. Call us at (631) 659-2980.
Does insurance cover VAX-D?
Many plans do. Coverage varies by carrier, plan design, and your specific diagnosis. We verify benefits upfront and help navigate authorization. Call us at (631) 659-2980 to discuss your coverage.