Research Update: Unveiling the Cost-Effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy for Chronic Back Pain

 Chronic back pain is a significant health issue that affects an increasing number of Australians. Traditional treatment methods can often be cost-prohibitive and, in some cases, invasive.

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy, particularly using advanced tables like the Hills SD table, provides a promising and cost-effective alternative for treating chronic back pain.

This article will discuss the financial benefits of spinal decompression therapy, along with scholarly references to support these claims.

The Growing Burden of Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain is more than just a personal health issue; it is also a societal burden.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), musculoskeletal conditions, particularly back problems, ranked among the top ten illnesses contributing to years lived with disability. This translates to significant economic ramifications in terms of both direct healthcare costs and indirect costs related to loss of productivity and absenteeism.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression therapy involves comfortably stretching the spine using a motorised device, such as the Hills SD table, to alleviate back pain. The underlying mechanism is based on reducing pressure on the spinal discs, promoting the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the discs, which supports healing and relieves pain. This method is non-invasive and considered a safer alternative to surgical options like spinal fusion.

How does it provide cost benefits?

Let’s find out!

Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings

The initial cost of spinal decompression therapy is typically lower than that of surgical interventions. Surgical treatments can be extremely expensive, considering the cost of the surgery itself, post-operative care, and the risk of complications leading to additional interventions. Alternatively, spinal decompression therapy generally involves a series of sessions that are considerably less expensive. In the long run, this can yield substantial savings.

According to Shealy and Borgmeyer (1997) in their study on decompression, reduction, and stabilization of the lumbar spine, this approach presents a cost-effective treatment for lumbosacral pain.

Reduced Indirect Costs

For individuals suffering from chronic back pain, the ability to resume daily activities and return to work is a crucial financial consideration. Studies have demonstrated that spinal decompression therapy can result in significant improvements in functional outcomes and pain reduction (Henry, 2017). Improved mobility and reduced pain levels mean fewer missed workdays, enhanced productivity, and ultimately less financial strain on both individuals and employers.

Avoiding Complications and Follow-Up Surgeries

Surgical treatments come with an inherent risk of complications, which can lead to further medical expenses. Common post-operative issues such as infections, persistent pain, and in some cases, failures necessitating additional surgeries, can make surgical options financially taxing in the long term. Spinal decompression therapy, by being non-invasive, inherently avoids these risks and the associated costs (Apfel et al., 2010).

Insurance Coverage

In Australia, Medicare does not cover spinal decompression therapy, but it often covers surgeries when they are deemed medically necessary. However, private health insurance companies increasingly recognise the value of conservative treatments like spinal decompression therapy and may offer coverage or partial reimbursement. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurers to understand the financial benefits.

Conclusion

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy offers a cost-effective alternative for treating chronic back pain, especially when compared to the high costs and potential complications of surgical interventions.

The Hills SD table provides a modern and reliable means to deliver this therapy effectively.

As health costs continue to rise, adopting less invasive, more affordable treatments like spinal decompression therapy could provide significant financial and health benefits to patients.

References

1. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/back-pain#:~:text=About%2016%25%20of%20Australians%20(4,all%20aspects%20of%20daily%20functioning.

2. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-musculoskeletal-conditions/back-problems

3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237628223_Decompression_reduction_and_stabilization_of_the_lumbar_spine_a_cost-effective_treatment_for_lumbosacral_pain

4. Henry, L. (2017). Non-surgical spinal decompression an effective physiotherapy modality for neck and back pain. Journal of Novel Physiotherapy and Physical Rehabilitation, 4(3), 062–065. https://doi.org/10.17352/2455-5487.000049

5. Apfel, C. C., Cakmakkaya, O. S., Martin, W., Richmond, C., Macario, A., George, E., Schaefer, M., & Pergolizzi, J. V. (2010). Restoration of disk height through non-surgical spinal decompression is associated with decreased discogenic low back pain: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-11-155