Real Patient Results with Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
20+ documented cases showing measurable disc reduction, pain relief, and avoided surgery using non-surgical spinal decompression.
Many of these patients were told surgery was their only option. They weren’t.
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.
Real outcomes. Real patients. Measurable change.
- 24 sessions over 8 weeks, 85–95 lbs tension
- Core stabilization + ergonomic retraining
- Pain centralized by week 2; foot numbness resolved by week 6
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.
- 24 sessions over 8 weeks, 65-75 lbs traction
- Seated posture retraining and McKenzie extension protocol
- Core stabilization with emphasis on transverse abdominis activation
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.
- 28 sessions over 10 weeks, 65–85 lbs (conservative for surgical history)
- Nerve gliding exercises + standing desk transition
- Slow progression weeks 1–2 due to scar tissue
Eliminated opioid use. Full work schedule restored. MRI: 3mm reduction.
Eliminated opioid dependency with sustained functional improvement after failed surgery.
- 22 sessions over 8 weeks, cervical protocol 12–18 lbs
- Chin tuck exercises + postural correction + cervical stabilization
Grip strength normal. Headaches eliminated. MRI: C6-C7 reduced to 2mm. Cancelled ACDF.
Full neurological recovery with cervical disc reduction — ACDF surgery cancelled.
- 24 sessions over 8 weeks, 60–75 lbs
- SI joint focus + anti-gravity mat + Pilates-based core
- Standing tolerance improved within weeks
Working full days without pain breaks. MRI showed disc rehydration with improved T2 signal.
Restored occupational function with documented disc rehydration on imaging.
- 20 sessions over 6 weeks, 65–80 lbs
- Post-pregnancy core restoration (transverse abdominis/pelvic floor)
- Baby-lifting biomechanics training
Fully functional — lifting, carrying, bending. Returned to running at 10 weeks.
Near-complete resolution of symptoms — returned to full maternal activity without restriction.
- 25 sessions over 9 weeks, 55–70 lbs (conservative for bone density)
- Gentle mobilization + aquatic exercise referral
- Walking without cane by week 4
Discontinued cane. Resumed gardening. Reduced Celebrex to as-needed.
Regained independent mobility and reduced medication reliance at age 67.
- 20 sessions over 6 weeks, 75–90 lbs
- Motor function tested every session (critical monitoring)
- Dorsiflexion improving by week 2
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.
- 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
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.
- 20 sessions over 7 weeks, 70–80 lbs
- Body mechanics training + core strengthening
- Off NSAIDs completely by week 5
Eliminated NSAID dependency. Full nursing schedule restored.
Eliminated long-term NSAID dependency with sustained return to full work capacity.
- 22 sessions over 7 weeks, 80–90 lbs
- Lumbar support for truck cab + McKenzie exercises + hip flexor stretching
Numbness resolved. Resumed long-haul routes. CDL maintained.
Resolved nerve symptoms and preserved commercial driving certification.
- 28 sessions over 10 weeks, 50–65 lbs (low tension)
- Flexion-based exercises + stationary bike
- Walking expanded progressively
Walking 6+ blocks without stopping. Reduced Gabapentin. Discontinued cane for daily activities.
Meaningful functional gain with restored walking tolerance — avoided laminectomy.
- 28 sessions over 10 weeks, 55-65 lbs traction
- Flexion-based decompression positioning
- Walking endurance protocol with graduated distance increases
Walking tolerance increased from 1.5 blocks to 8+ blocks without rest. Leg numbness resolved.
Restored independent walking capacity with resolution of neurogenic claudication.
- 20 sessions over 6 weeks, 75-85 lbs traction
- Sport-specific rehab protocol starting week 4
- Progressive return-to-sport testing
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.
- 22 sessions over 7 weeks, cervical protocol 14–20 lbs
- Postural correction (forward head) + scapular stabilization
- Ergonomic workstation adjustments
Tricep 5/5 restored. Headaches eliminated. MRI: reduced to 2.5mm. Declined ACDF.
Full neurological recovery with headache resolution — ACDF surgery declined.
- 18 sessions over 6 weeks, 50-60 lbs traction
- Flexion-distraction protocol targeting facet joints
- Ergonomic workstation overhaul and hourly movement protocol
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.
- 20 sessions over 7 weeks, 70–80 lbs
- Upper lumbar positioning + flexion-based exercises
- Quad strengthening + patellar reflex monitoring
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.
- 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
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.
- 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
Walking 8+ blocks. Plays with grandchildren. Tapered off Tramadol completely.
Eliminated opioid use with functional recovery after failed laminectomy.
- 26 sessions over 9 weeks, 55-65 lbs traction
- Scar tissue mobilization protocol
- Segmental stabilization for adjacent segment protection
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.
- PARTIAL: 16 sessions / 4 weeks trial, 70–85 lbs, intensive monitoring
- Pain improved 10→5 but free fragment remained on imaging
- Clinical decision: proceed with microdiscectomy at week 5
Final: NPRS 1, ODI 6%. Returned to training at 16 weeks (modified).
Partial response to conservative care — appropriate surgical referral with successful combined outcome.
Aggregate Results Across All 21 Cases
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my results be the same?
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.