Spinal Decompression in Naples, FL

Cost varies with the region treated, the length of your plan and whether imaging or added therapies are included, so we quote it after your exam. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, UnitedHealthcare and Cigna, and CareCredit financing is available. Call (239) 593-6788 for a figure specific to your case.

Most patients notice the first change within two to four weeks of starting care. Early signs are usually subtle: less pain on waking, or sitting longer before symptoms build. Fuller relief typically settles in over a 6 to 10 week plan as the disc rehydrates and the nerve calms. Results vary with how long the problem has been present.

Spinal decompression should not hurt. Most patients describe a steady, comfortable stretch and many relax through the session. Mild muscle soreness in the first two or three visits is common and usually fades within a day. Tell Dr. Bergtold or your technician if anything feels sharp, since the table settings can be adjusted.

A typical plan runs 15 to 25 sessions spread over several weeks, though the number depends on your imaging, how long the disc has been symptomatic and how you respond. The disc answers to repetition rather than to one long session. Dr. Bergtold sets the count after your exam and revises it at scheduled re-exams.

Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Some policies cover decompression under mechanical traction codes and some exclude it entirely. Our office verifies your benefits with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, UnitedHealthcare or Cigna before care begins, and CareCredit is available when a plan is not covered.

Decompression uses a computer-guided table to unload a disc over 20 to 30 minutes, while a chiropractic adjustment restores motion to a restricted joint in seconds. They solve different problems and often work well together. Many patients receive both, along with cold laser therapy, within one coordinated plan at our Naples office.

Yes, when the sciatica comes from a disc pressing on a lumbar nerve root, which is the most common cause. Lowering pressure inside the disc reduces the mechanical irritation driving the leg pain. Sciatica from piriformis tightness or another source responds differently, which is why we image first rather than assume the cause.

Decompression is not appropriate during pregnancy, or with spinal fusion hardware in the treated region, severe osteoporosis, spinal fracture, spinal tumor or an abdominal aortic aneurysm. New bowel or bladder changes and progressive weakness need urgent medical evaluation instead. Dr. Bergtold screens for all of these before your first session.

Many of our Naples patients are older adults, and decompression is generally well tolerated at any age when bone quality is adequate. The deciding factor is imaging, not birth year. On-site X-rays let Dr. Bergtold rule out advanced osteoporosis, fracture or instability, then set gentler table parameters where they are warranted.

Yes. There is no sedation and no downtime, so you can drive yourself home and go back to work or errands the same day. We ask you to drink water, keep moving gently and follow the home care instructions between visits. Consistency across the plan matters more than anything you do on treatment day.

Yes. Alongside the cervical and lumbar Hill DT protocols we run a knee decompression protocol that unloads a painful joint using the same principle of controlled traction. It is often combined with laser therapy for patients with chronic knee pain. Ask Dr. Bergtold whether your knee is a candidate during your exam.

It can, once imaging rules out fracture or instability. Cervical decompression is often used for disc injury from an auto accident, usually after the acute inflammation settles. Our guide to whiplash recovery timelines explains what to expect week by week.