Alan went for a consult re: DRX-9000 machine [Archive]

MelodyL

10-06-2006, 05:15 PM

Hi All: I'm posting this on both PN boards because I'm not sure who goes to which board.

Hopefully some knowledgeable person out there will be able to answer my question.

Today Alan and I went to a free consultation to a chiropractor that uses the DRX 9000 , the spinal decompression machine table……

Thank God the consult was free
He brought all his previous mri reports. His last was done last year.

After looking at the MRI report she turned to Alan and said “you have severe spinal problems. I really don’t know right now!! You may or may not be a candidate for DRX 9000. We have 11 slots. How important is it to you!!! Alan just sat there and said “well, I want to get rid of my neuropathy”. He had filled out a questionnaire and one of the questions was “how has this affected your life”. And Alan had written “I wanted to commit suicide, the pain was so great”. He then explained that he wrote this 4 years ago before he went to Dr. Theirl and had adjustments.

She said “When you write down I want to commit suicide, that is a powerful statement. How bad do you want to get rid of your neuropathy? Alan honestly did not know how to answer her. He thought he did answer her.

So I interrupted and said “how much are we talking here, how many treatments?” She said “about three months, and it will run between 3 and five thousand, but honestly most of my patients pay $100 a month because their insurance only covers 10% of the treatment.
I said “if the treatment works, why don’t insurance companies pay for the whole thing?” she said “well, this has been around for 6 years, and most insurance companies need a thing to be around for over 11 years. I just stared at her. I then asked her “what’s the worst thing about Alan’s back and she said “well for starters, he has stenosis, he has a lot of disc problems, not just one or two.”

Then she said “you have three options”. 1. You have surgery (you can probably find some surgeon to operate), 2. You do nothing and take pain pills the rest of your life, and 3. You do non surgical decompression (DRX-9000).”

Then she said “the next part of this consultation is the exam and the emg non-invasive scanner.”

So Alan went in for the scan. . The doctor did a Rolling Thermal Scan of his spine. He sat at a computer and she ran this hand-held scanner thing up and down his back. She called it a non-invasive emg.

Then she sits us down and says “tonight I will review all the reports and I will determine if you are a candidate for the DRX-9000. “You are young to have such a bad bad back”. I asked her “when people do the DRX, do they have to stop going to the gym and exercising and she said “absolutely”.

Alan goes to the gym every other day, lifts weights and feels better for doing it. Also, his chiropractor/neurologist Dr. Theirl knows Alan goes and says “go for it”.

Dr. Theirl and Alan’s primary care doctor, Dr. Fred (who he adores), said “alan is not a candidate for surgery”. Dr. Fred also goes to the gym and meets Alan there sometimes.

So I just wanted you guys to see the report and read what this DRX doctor said to Alan and tell me what you think. Do you think his back is as terrible as she told him. I mean the guy goes to the gym 3 times a week, has muscles and the only time his neuropathy drives him crazy is when he lays down at night and after I massage him like crazy, he goes to sleep.
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Here’s what it says on the report:

TECHNIQUE: Neurtal/Sitting: Sagittal T1 Sagittal T2, Axial T1

Interpretation: Desiccation of all the lumbar intervertebral discs is present. Minimal narrowing of the L1/2 disc is present. Ventral marginal osteophytes and diffuse disc bulging are noted at the L1/2 and L2/3 levels. Both bulging discs impinge upon the thecal sac. Moderate narrowing of the L3/4 and L4/5 discs is present. Ventral and dorsal marginal osteophytes and diffuse disc bulging are noted at the L3/4 and L4/5 levels. Both bulging discs cause small ventral impressions upon the thecal sac and extend into the inferior aspects of the adjacent neural foramina bilaterally. Minimal narrowing of the L5/S1 is present. A diffuse disc bulge is noted at the L5/S1 which impinges upon the thecal sac and extendes into the inferior aspects of the L5/S1 neural foramina.

A moderate fat island hemangioma is noted within the L4 vertebral body. Minimal bilateral facet hypertrophy is identified at the L4/5 and L5/S1 levels.

The lumbar lordotic curve is well maintained. There is no evidence of loss of height involving the lumbar vertebral bodies. The bone marrow demonstrates normal signal intensity.

The paravertebral soft tissues demonstrate normal signal characteristics and morphologi appearance.

There is no evidence of spinal stenosis. The cous medullaris and cauda equine demonstrate normal signal intensity. The conus is within normal limits in size. There is no evidence of an intra-dural lesion.

IMPRESSION: L1/2 DISC BULGE, WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC.
L2/3 DISC BULGE WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC.
L3/4 AND L4/5 DISC BULGES CAUSING SMALL VENTRAL IMPRESSIONS
UPON THE THECAL SAC AND PARTIALLY COMPROMISING THE ADJACENT NEURAL FORMAINA BILATERALLY.
L5/S1 DISC BULGE WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC AND PARTIALLY COMPROMISES THE L5/S1 NEURAL FORAMINA BILATERALLY.
DEGENERATIVE DISEASE.

I really didn’t want this to be a long drawn out posting but if anybody heard anything good about the DRX, I’d love to hear about it. I know we discussed this once on the old boards, but now that he had the free consult (Oh, I forgot to say, I asked the people in the waiting room about it and they were raving about it).

So any input would be most welcome.

We don’t have a lot of money (we don’t have any money to be truthful) but if he gets a part time job we could come up with $100 a month but we are talking about $100 a month for many years here.

We just want to make sure.

Thanks to anybody who can offer any information.

We would really like to know if she interpreted his mri report truthfully.

Thanks,
melody

Aussie99

10-06-2006, 05:58 PM

I had a back operation in 2001 on L3-4 & L4-5. Two levels. After 2 long years of misery before hand. But I was never able to do any working out,and barely walked too.

My MRI reports said things such as marked herniation,fragmented displacement and so forth. Bulging discs is much less severe. The only thing is he has them at multiple levels.

If he is fit,and working out than he is managing this condition. I too have stenosis, which is narrowing of vertebrae, and athritis in neck and lumbar spine.

I work everyday, clean a fairly large house and look after my 7 year old with this bad back.

Alan sounds much fitter than me, and he is able to workout.

I don't like the sounds of paying 100$ for the rest of your life, and maybe the reason he is not a candidate for surgery is because the discs aren't herniated enough to merit an invasive procedure?

MelodyL

10-06-2006, 07:55 PM

I agree. But I want to make sure that this is not another scam and if this machine does what it claims and he can change his spine and find what is pinching and get rid of the neuropathy!!! Well, it's something to think about isn't it.

thanks much.

Melody

Aussie99

10-07-2006, 03:32 AM

It appears that they are creating alot of intrigue with this device by making people compete for it. this is actually a marketing technique, called "Illusion of Exclusivity."

They are basically saying that not everyone can have this, and only the chosen few will have the privelage of this cure. So they make you pour your guts out,and tell them about all about the pain and torture you have suffered. They can then use this as manipulation. Obviously nobody can afford the costs, so they even have a payment plan option. Why does it cost so much anyways? I've been operated on for less.

I would feel much better if there was a bit more mainstream,and you knew people who had done it, before commiting to the tremendous cost. I would also call my insurance comapny and ask them why only 10% is covered, and ask if anyone else has recently done the treatment and so forth.

MelodyL

10-07-2006, 06:29 AM

I forgot to mention one thing from the conversation!!!

As I sat down I observed an x-ray on the wall of a seemingly curved spine!!

Now 3 years I was diagnosed with severe S shaped scoliosis. The only reason I went to my doctor for an x-ray was because ocasionally I would experience a sharp pain between my shoulder blades. The pain would knock me off my feet but it happened maybe twice a year and believe it or not, it hasn''t happened again.
So my doctor said "let's get you an x-ray of your upper back".

So I take the x-ray and the x-ray technician goes to me 'well, you do know you have scoliosis, don't you"??? I looked at the x-ray and there was a big S on the screen. I said "that's my back????" and he goes "oh, you didn't know you had scoliosis'.

So the report goes back to my doctor and he says "Melody, there's nothing you can do at your age, just keep as fit as you can." Honestly my scoliosis doesn't give me any problem, I'm not hunched, and by looked at me, I stand straight so I have no idea why there's a big S on the screen and on the report, where it says Interpretation, it reads. Severe S shaped Scoliosis!!!

So I'm sitting across from this doctor yesterday and I said "by the way, I'd like to ask a question before you begin with Alan and I go. "do you treat scoliosis?" and she goes "yes in some cases". I go "but if a person is 59 years old, you can't change the bone in the back, that's why they rarely operate on people over 14, I researched this'. She answered "well, we do help people in some cases".

I didn't believe her.

what do you think???? and people, please keep the comments coming, okay?

thanks,

Love, Mel

norwegian

10-07-2006, 07:15 AM

If they try to make money on Alan's misery I wouldnt trust them for a second. Find out if the machine and treatment is standard procedure in a quality hospital treating these health issues.

best wishes for Alan and you
Per, Norway

Silverlady

10-07-2006, 07:45 AM

Mel,
This is what Aetna Insurance company considers their opinion of this machine, but I don't know anything about them. Just seems to me they are not proven to work yet.

http://www.aetna.com/cpb/data/CPBA0180.html

Billye

MelodyL

10-07-2006, 08:34 AM

Want to know what Alan wants to purchase?

He saw on shopnbc.com a back reclining machine promoted by Tony Little. It's different than the Hang Ups upside down hanging thing that I saw on QVC.

Here's the link for that one.

http://www.hsn.com/cnt/prod/default.aspx?pfid=807172&club_id=807172&sz=3&sf=HF0007&rdr=1&cm_mmc=ShoppingEngine*NexTag*hf0007*807172

Anybody have any opinions on either this machine or the Hang Ups one!!

Here's a link to the hang ups machine:

http://www.teeterhangups.com/testimonials/index.html

We are seriously thinking about getting one of these!!!

melody

cathy911

10-07-2006, 09:03 AM

Thought I'ld share my experience on DRX-9000. I used it for 3 months 3 times a week along with massage, and tens unit. I do admit after the three months I did feel much better, the hook was to use it weekly and then monthly for maintenance. I was fortunate that my insurance picked up 80% of the cost and the Dr. wrote off quite a bit of the remainder. My neurologist gave me botox injections after this and the pain was tolerable for almost a year. It is back full force now though, so if a person can afford it, it does work but (this is only my personal opinion) it would probably be pretty much a life time commitment to be more than a temporary fix. Anyone with chronic pain knows that even short durations of manageable pain is a godsend and helps you refuel, only wish it was permanent.

Cathy

LittleMischief

10-07-2006, 12:13 PM

Mel, you may have mentioned this and I missed it, but did you and Alan discuss this treatment with Dr. Theirl?

I know you trust his opinions ... and he did help Alan tremendously, yes?

dahlek

10-07-2006, 12:31 PM

out of curiousity? I agree w/Dottye and the others about asking Dr. Theirle...The vagueness of this docs answers and 'webbing' a peek at the machine..well make me wonder if this is a 'cool sounding' BLACK HOLE.

I have in the past gone to chiro's, tho not lucky enuf to have found a chiro/neuro as you have...My reasons were muscle/tissue damage and not spinal tho.. For Alan to decide, you as well maybe, is if your conditions warrant the extra expense for what's sounding like some BIG FAT MAYBE's. AND NEVER covered by insurance!

IF Doc T says give it a whirl..I would, but cautiously. I'll see if I can find any NIH/trials on the thing...usually when those are posted...the actual equipment used is very, very vague-so's not to bias one machine over another. Why thats done with equipment and not drugs is another mystery. But, this is the way of the medical world..

Check out your area hospital's services for cancer patients tho..many offer reiki, various massages and other exercise programs...cheap. I don't think that they can legally exclude non-cancer folks..worth a shot! - Good thoughts! - j

MelodyL

10-07-2006, 12:57 PM

Hi. yeah, Alan has pretty much convinced himself that he's not going back to the Chiro for the results of his "being a candidate for the DRX".

I went to the "testimonials" for the Teeter hang up thing and my god, all those people loved it. Said they hang upside down for 3 minutes before they go to bed.

I like the Tony Little recliner thing. It would replace the horrible recliner we have in the living room and it also is a heat, massage, inversion thing so you everything in one package.

we are still considering all options. and most definitely will speak to Dr. Theirl and his primary care before we make any purchases.

And as always, I love all of you.

Take care,
Love, Melody

P.S. You should have seen us this morning. Alan was on the Cross Country Ski machine and I went on the health Rider.

Only for a few minutes but it's a start.

I'm making zucchini and turbot fillet for supper. And of course, I'm making Alan his most favorite thing in the whole wide world. PATATAS. I call them patatas but they are potatoes. I take a nice baking potato, wash thoroughly, leave the skin on and slice real thin. Then I put PAM in the frying pan. I toss the sliced potatoes with garlic powder, parsley and layer them and drizzel a little EVOO (as Rachel Rae, says ) Extra Virgin olive oil...cook thorougly for 25 minutes, then put the heat up high to lightly burn them. Makes them turn out like potato chips and he goes crazy. Uses a wee bit of ketchup and he's in heaven.

I won't touch em because I'm diabetic but between my PATATAS and my massages, well, my Alan is in good hands....

P.P,.S,. I have a question.
instead of immediately buying one of the inversion table things, do you think it might be a good idea if Alan
HANGS OFF THE BED, WITH HIS HEAD ON THE FLOOR!! for maybe a minute, to see if gets dizzy or something.
I mean, isn't it the same principal. Hanging and stretching the spine. What's the difference if you lay on the bed and gently head for the floor. Wouldn't that stretch the spine. I mean, not forever, but at least it's a start to see how he does and then we could think about getting an inversion table.

Or MAYBE HE CAN STAND ON HIS HEAD. I've seen people do that. They have two cusions on either side and then they just kneel down and stand on their head. I mean, I would have to prop him up
Forget that, I can't do that. Just a thought though.........

snoozie

10-08-2006, 01:22 PM

Hi Melody, I just wanted to let you know that we have one of the inversion machines and we swear by it. My hubby has some pain in his back but not severe and when his gets to bothering him he hangs upside down for a few days and he is fixed. Also my son 13, has spondylothesis grade 2 and he hangs on it too. So far it has really helped him when he gets to hurting too bad. I don't hang because the ortho doc told me with my fusion (cervical)that it wouldn't be a good idea but I have used it to sort of recline just to stretch out my lumbar area, I wont go all the way to a free hang.

As far as standing on his head, I don't think that is a good idea because it puts alot pf pressure on your neck, the difference with a inverse hang is that there is no pressure anywhere on your spine. I have tried the hanging head over the bed pose and while it may help a little it is in no way the same as the inversion.

I saw the inversion machine at Costco and I think it was around 100.00 but I am not sure. We got ours at a yard sale for about 40 bucks. That was over 8 years ago and it is always set up in the garage as it gets used quite a bit. My chiro was able to get one for another patient as I saw it in his office one time. He doesn't sell them just was able to order one for someone, maybe he got it cheaper?? I love my chiro, he is very knowledgable and has never hurt any of us. I see him for traction on my lumbar spine and my kids see him when they need an adjustment. I would try one a see what you think because I will always have mine and when it wears out we will get another. Hope that helps...Sue

MelodyL

10-08-2006, 04:35 PM

Sue: You said the following:

"he hangs upside down for a few days and he is fixed.

What is he a bat??? that he can hang upside down for a few days???

I never laughed so hard.
I am picturing Alan hanging upside down for a few days.

Thanks for all the information.

by the way, Alan, when he goes to the gym, just started on a levitation thing. Says he goes upside down.
This I have to see!!!
be well.

mel

snoozie

10-08-2006, 11:58 PM

Hi Melody, that cracked me up!!! There are times I would like to hang him up for a few days ha ha:p

Whats a levitiation thing? Isn't that a magicians trick? :D ...Sue

MelodyL

10-09-2006, 06:47 AM

I asked Alan "what is this levitation thing that you hang on?" and he goes "what levitation thing". OH GOD, THIS MAN.... SOMETIMES!!!!!!

I said very slowly. "alan, you came home the other day and say you went on a levitation machine. Now what did you mean?"

He goes, "oh, that thing!!, it's a thing that you lay down on, hook your feet under and you are on a surface that you can make your legs go higher or down more and you do situps. I don't do situps on this thing, I just use it like an inversion thing, I just lay there and stretch. It feels good. (He must be at an angle or an inclination).

Takes a bit to understand this guy sometimes. He really had me going. I was all ready to buy David Copperfield Tickets.

mel

P.S. And this is important. Alan just told me he can't get the inversion table because when he laid down on the incline thing, and it was at a big incline with his head facing downward, the blood rushed to his head and when he stood up, his face was all red. I asked him "Did this make you uncomfortable, while you were on the incline thing?, and he goes "well, not really, but I didn't like it that the blood rushed to my head".

I think, honestly, if we are going to invest in something, it might be the Tony Little Recliner because, it will give him the stretcability he needs (if he ever wishes to recline all the way), the heat, the massage (and it's a good chair, and we need a chair). So I figure, when we are ready, this is the thing we'll get.

Diana Meyers

11-01-2006, 07:50 PM

Hi Melody,
I found your story by searching the web on this DRX9000 machine and realized that all of these chiro's must go to the same training seminar on how to convince people to sign-up for this treatment. I pretty much had the same story where it all seemed like a big sales pitch, but knowing this I still fell into the trap of at least setting an appointment for the EMS evaluation. Its for this Friday, but I'm already certain that I will be a "perfect candidate"...isn't anyone willing to pay this outrageous cost considered a perfect candidate??? Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that you're not alone with this one, and I was wondering if you ever got any feedback from your doctor on the DRX. Let me know what the doc thought as I'm going to also ask my orthopedic specialist when I see him next month (gotta love waiting 6 weeks for an appointment!).

Thanks!
Diana

MelodyL

11-02-2006, 01:29 PM

Will update you all after tomorrow. Alan has an appointment in NYC at 1 pm with a guy who specializes in Endoscopic Dischetomy.
Now we have no idea if Alan is a candidate for this minimally invasive procedure.

All we can do is hope.
So keep us in your prayers.
Will update.

regards,
melody

dahlek

11-03-2006, 09:51 AM

Have you brought this up on the spinal boards? I'm sure there are folks there who have probably been thru the 'process' and can give that ever so priceless first hand experience.

I can only speak for myself, but, I just webbed up the procedure and took just a peek...doesn't look too horid, tho any invasive technique is just that...invasive.

About 6 years ago I'd had arthroscopic surgery on a knee, one thought to have either tendon or capsule damage. It seems the processes are the same if it's a calcium or bone deformity or deterioration. In my case, I'd only DENTED the inside of my kneecap in a fall...they roto-rooted the dent smooth and on we go! I was walking [sort of-no races tho] that day and bandage came off in two days. Amazing what they do these days! Golly they even gave me color pics of what they'd done! Not that I had a CLUE of what I was looking at.... Overall I'd gotten four-five tiny holes in/around the knee [none more than a 1/4 in.]...they came at it from lots of different angles? and all were healed and gone in less than a week! Soo, aside from the percocet & it's joyful side effects [on for less than a week] it was a good thing to do in the long run.

BTW the knee issue never was an issue or consideration with my PN-later. But, it was a good surgical experience to have...
It's Alan's choice, I just wish he would check it all out for himself, develop his own sense of where he is [aside from PAIN], so he can decide in an INFORMED manner.

One other thing...Mel - I've a biig chest freezer - you want to send some of that meatloaf? I'll keep it for you. We got it with our house when we bought it, apparently the prior Mrs. was short and kept falling in... Go figger.

Pain free moments to you and all - j

MelodyL

11-03-2006, 03:30 PM

But, we just came back from the neurosurgeon and I'm doing a new thread.
Give me your ideas, okay?

Melody

franknorberg

01-04-2007, 09:20 PM

I am in the same boat and have been doing research myself. What concerns me is the sales pitch and all the marketing going into to this thing. I havent yet seen one at a hospital. Most are set up at chiropratic offices. Also the cost seems very high. Not sure what the machine cost, but I am curious as to who can buy them and operate them?

Do you have to be a licensed doctor or chiroprator?

I went to the first consult but my MRI was too old. I got the feeling that they stress "you may not be a candidate for it" to get me to really want to have it.

I have only talked to one person who did it and he only went to a few sessions and his back got worse. However his back was very messed up.

I did ask my orthopedic back specialist and he says he didnt know much about it. His comment was if it did work and relieve pressure you would need to keep going to keep the spine from reverting back.

In my opinion if they are going to charge $3000 they should allow life time maintance visits. If I find any other good info I will let you know.

CarolK

01-14-2007, 10:19 AM

Melody, I noticed on you first post that this "doctor" said a lot of words like minimal, partial and moderate in his diagnosis. It seems to me that he wasn't committing to any real diagnosis, just trying to sell you on a bill of goods. Just my opinion, but I wouldn't trust him.

MelodyL

01-14-2007, 12:19 PM

Not to worry. It seems that everybody who goes to one of these appointments are told the same pitch line. "We only have so many slots and you might not be a candidate, I have to see if you are a candidate, blah, blah".

To me, it's all a pitch. And you are most certainly right. For that kind of money, you should be getting lifetime treatments at least once a week.

Melody

Silver Swan

01-14-2007, 05:53 PM

Yah, Melody, I think you had better cross that one off your list, the way it sounds. Good candidate, my eye...

Shirley H.

Pink Buzz Bomb

01-15-2007, 12:13 PM

I'm the new kid on the block, but I've been reading a lot of your posts on this forum and I'm so thankful to have found it! I chose "quick reply" hope that the right one. My story in a nutshell....

Long standing history of lower back pain
Surgery in 1994 for fractured disc... successful for the most part
Many MRI's, most recent within the last year
Belonged to an HMO and was more or less told to live with it... given pain pills which I hate. Presently taking Ultram 50mg three times a day
Quite HMO 1-1-07 and got local doctor... saw him today. He doesn't like pain pills, even Ultram. Said it IS a narcotic, even though I was told it is not when HMO put me on it
New doctor (Dr. Parker) said he likes to help people with low back problems and he is confident my bulging discs can be helped
PREVIOUSLY (last week) went to see a chiropractor, Dr. Baldwin, re DRX 9000 after seeing TV spot. Of course I got the same schpeel many of you report. Told I will need 30 treatments including massage and some chiro adjustments. I have never believed in chiro as I worked for 35 years as an RN, but the TV spot intrigued me. So... was told it would cost $9000!!! Told my husband will have to be with me for the review of my "5 bulging discs (according to their review of my MRI report) and to sign up for the payment of treatments. Dr. I saw at the free consultation said they can finance it through some company which I forgot the name right now and the payments would be around 200 a month. He also wanted to do the required physical that day with a cost of around $200. It took him less than 5 minutes! The technician did another scan of my spine with the little gizmo right before the mini exam... and I mean mini. We re scheduled to go for the meeting when I sign on the dotted line to pay the $9000 this coming Wed. After reading this forum and the various posts, I'm thinking I better get out while the getting is good. But the patients there told me how much it was helping them. I want so desperately to get rid of this debilitating pain and be able to ride my bike and work out like I was. The hip pain that radiates down my leg is the worse part. Can't sleep on my R side, hurts to lay on back. So I get up and sleep in my recliner with a heating pad. Thanks for letting me ramble on here. I sure am open for suggestions. Is this DRX basically a money making business that may give a bit of help but it won't be lasting???? Doesn't $9000 sound way out of line? Should I just stick with my new doctor? I really liked his manor and I've worked with many doctors over the years as an RN, so I think I am a pretty good judge of that... at least I hope so.

MelodyL

01-15-2007, 12:28 PM

Hi. $9000 sounds absolutely way out of line. Please be careful before you sign anything.

I know you indicated that you don't care for chiropractors but let me assure you, a certain chiropractor/neurologist by the name of Dr. Theirl (in NYC) has literally saved my husband's life. My husband went to him weighing over 267 lbs, had severe Peripheral Neuropathy, wore a Fentanyl pain patch, and couldn't even bend his legs, was stiff as a board and well, fast forward 3 years later, he no longer is on any pain meds (he was off the patch after starting with Dr. Theirl in about 3 months), he weighs about 197, he goes to the gym 3 to 4 times a week, he eats healthy, (he had a stent put in in January), and yesterday at the gym, his primary care physician Dr. Fred told Alan, "I want to speak to your Dr. Theirl, I have a lot of back patients".

So before you rush out to this DRX and pay $9000, if you live near NYC, why not go and see Dr. Theirl. His website is Functionalrestoration.com

He helps a lot of people and most of all, he helped my Alan. He's a different man today. I credit Dr. Theirl first for helping him with the PN and Dr. Fred for getting him to go to the gym and acting like Rocky Balboa.

Good luck,
Melody

Pink Buzz Bomb

01-15-2007, 05:06 PM

I live a long ways from NYC... I live in Washington State! I appreciate your advise. Did Dr. Theirl use the DRX 9000 machine for Alen? Do you know an average cost for it in other places? I guess I shouldn't have said I don't like chiropractors like that. I worked so long in the more traditional setting and heard a lot of horror stories. But people don't come in and tell you the good ones like you did.

Jo*mar

01-15-2007, 05:32 PM

I wanted to say HI and Welcome to - Pink Buzz Bomb.

I have a very good chiropractor.
He does use low level laser, ultrasound, IF stimulation {similar to a TENS but better} & Nimmo {a triggerpoint/deep tissue type treatment}. He uses the Gonstead technique and is very precise and gentle when he does any adjustments and he also adjusts the C1/C2.
{called Upper cervical adjustment}
- some of the chiro sites have many listings and specialties and list the additional classes a DC has taken.
here's one -
http://www.chiroweb.com/locator/

But definitely don't sign up for the DRX machine or those treatments.

There are plenty of good chiros out there and advanced PT people too, that might be able to help for a lot less than 9k.
Or possibly a physiatrist that works closely with advanced PT people.

Jo*mar

01-15-2007, 05:48 PM

I did a search for Washington state - http://www.chiroweb.com/locator/search.php?state=52&country=USA&

Some MDs don't want to accept that a DC might be able to help someone when the MD can't. It's just a "thing" that makes for a divide.:(
Personally I think we would all be in better shape if they would work together more often.

Oh - if you decide to try a DC- use the first visit/evaluation appt {sometimes they will discount this first one} to ask and get a feel for the DC to see if you will feel comfortable with them. Use it as an interview so to speak.

I've been signed up for this guys newsletter for quite awhile- here's his website- http://www.atlaschiro.com/roundy.htm

MelodyL

01-15-2007, 09:08 PM

Hi Pink Buzz Bomb:

No, Dr. Theirl doesn't use the 95X machine. Or any machine similar to it. He does use a G5 machine. And he does adjustments on Alan's body that makes him want to dance when he gets home.

OH, Just finished watching 24. WHAT A SHOW!!!!

mel

SnowPetal

03-17-2007, 01:18 AM

Hello... As a Chiropractor whose patients have confidence in me, I must say that in the last 10 years I have only had 2 patients who were candidates for spinal decompression therapy (DRX9000).

For those 2 patients, it is probably the best option, but I also use Gonstead technique, and I find most patients are very statisfied with the care I give to them.

Don't know if this is still an active string, but if so, hopefully there will be an update about the woman's husband?
Cheers ~ SnowPetal

MelodyL

03-17-2007, 07:24 AM

Hi, just got your email, letting me know you responded.

You have only found two people who qualified for the DRX, really??

Then how come all these chiropractors are using the machines and so many patients are paying BIG bucks for them.

Does this thing ever work.

My husband Alan, (the one with the bad neuropathy) has been helped by Dr. Theirl in New York City. He's a chiropractic neurologist.

However, Alan's neuro ordered a spinal tap last month. They found protein, which led her to a diagnosis of CIDP, Chronic Inflammatory Demylenating Polyneuropathy. It's rare and many neuro's really never see a case of it.

She ordered him IVIG, and he finished the first 5 rounds in the hospital last week. No ill effects except he's exhausted. We are following up on Monday and will find out about home infusions.

I am looking up Gonstead technique. That's a new one for me!!!!

Thank god for insurance. That's all I can say.

Good to hear from you!!!!
Melody

Kathi49

03-17-2007, 08:14 AM

Melody,

Having lived with spinal disorders for 7 years now I will say this much.

Your best bet? Find a spine clinic or a spine group with the best NS or OS you can find and take it from there. The rest is all hocus pocus.

Better yet, talk to the people on the spinal disorders board either here or at the old braintalk. They are very experienced in all of these spine issues!

MelodyL

03-17-2007, 11:59 AM

Let me tell you this. Alan has been to 3 spinal surgeons. Two neurosurgeons, etc. They all have come to the conclusion that because he lifts weights, goes to the gym, etc. they won't touch him.

I think they are right on the money.

Melody

Kathi49

03-17-2007, 12:59 PM

Melody,

They won't touch him because he goes to the gym and lifts weights. That would make sense. Have they offered anything else?

Kathi49

03-17-2007, 01:04 PM

MelodyL

03-17-2007, 03:27 PM

Why do you think Alan is married to me?? I'm the one who massages him!!!!

lol

melody

Lisa gallegos

03-28-2007, 03:36 PM

Melody,

Over on the old braintalk there is a post about this DX machine. And the person that had it done and the Chiro are both saying...beware!!! A machine is a machine is a machine. If something goes wrong, there is no going back. Personally, I would stay clear of it and look for other options.

I have been going to Chiropractors for years and in that time while actively going I have have experienced some serious issues in my back. About three years ago as I was trowing some alafalfa out to our horses when something went wrong in my lower back and I have had tremendous lower back pain and and numbness and tingling that has worsened with time,along with weight gain and limited mobility as a result,and I am only 36 years old.
Yesterday my husband was folding some laundry in our bedroom and saw the comercial for the DRX 9000,he called me in to see it and told me maybe this was the answer to our prayers..
So I called and set up a free consult,went through exam and x rays.
The Chiros "Dr. Baldwin," reccommended that I have a discounted $700 MRI to see if I was a candidate and to see what was going on with my back.So I am scheduled for an MRI this evening at 6pm. We are a family of four and do not have any medical so all of this will have to go on a credit card...So I came online to see what others were saying about this treatment ,I really would like some feed back from thise who have used it...Thank you,Lisa

MelodyL

03-28-2007, 04:12 PM

Hi Lisa:

I don't know anyone who has tried it,but I can tell you one thing. Everybody who has gone on an appointment has been told "I will examine you to see if you are a candidate for this machine (they are always told this same line), then after the examination, (during which the doctor does a scan of the back with some kind of scanning device (like out of Star Trek), I watched her do this to my husband. Anyway, we then walked into another office and she said "okay, I have 10 slots available, and I have to go over the report to see if your husband is a candidate. I will let you know. Then she hit us with the total cost (over $5,000).

Alan decided it was too costly. So I came back on the boards and that's when I found out that just about everybody who goes for this appointment are told "I only have several slots available, and I have to see if you are a candidate".

To me, this smells of a money making thing. Not that the guy you went to is doing this (money making), it's just that when EVERYBODY is told the same thing, well, a bell goes off in my head.

I didn't really like the chiro we went to that told Alan about being a candidate and so many slots available. Why are there Slots available?

And why does this darn thing cost so much?? And why doesn't insurance pay for the whole thing if the darn thing works? These are the questions that I always ask myself.

Anyway, if you go ahead and do this I most certainly wish you well and hope your pain significantly decreases.

Take care,
Melody

PainMD

04-03-2007, 10:14 PM

How does decompressing the spine affect a periperal neuropathy? The problem is not of spinal origin ( hence PERIPERAL, not CENTRAL). Idiopathic means of unknown cause. This is a scam- Run away as fast as you can

jarrett622

04-03-2007, 10:48 PM

Bulging disks? No wonder he has so much pain. If you look at a picture of the spine and all the disks and such, you'll see that on each side of the opening in a vertebrae is where all the nerve bundles come through. With a bulging disk it can put pressure on those nerve bundles. I'm not sure if I'm explaining this adequately so if someone could give me a hand I'd appreciate it.

What does his doc say about these bulging disks and treatment for them?

I'm glad (I read through the entire thread before posting) you decided against it. It seems to me there might be some very serious risk involved. What jumped out at me is what would happen to these bulging disks if the wrong kind of pressure was put on them? Among other concerns. Is there risk of damage? I mean in addition to the problems Alan already has? Was that discussed at all?

Barbara

ryanmitton

04-10-2007, 12:17 AM

hey. L5S1, the usual.

not a doctor. im 30, did 20 treatments (mine was only 3K, 9 sounds like you could fly to calgary and get it done there for cheaper).

i went from 8/10 to 0/10 with the odd 4/10 flair up after working out and playing squash too muchh.

my email is ryanmitton@gmail.com

like many things in life, u will only get what you intend on getting.

i don't own a machine, and im not a doctor. worked like a charm....

Kathi49

04-10-2007, 06:48 AM

Jarrett,

I totally and completely agree with you. I have been a "spiney" for a long time. Since there is stenosis and osteophytes there is NO WAY I would use traction. Forget the monies involved; it is a big scam in my opinion. Trust me, I have talked to my spinal PM a hundred times about conservative therapies like this; traction and even chiropractic and it is all hogwash. I was put in cervical traction once and it made me much worse. I thank God every day for the spinal group I eventually found. There are far better treatments for this than just traction. Think about the traction itself, just pulling on the lumbar spine. And when done, I can just visualize what it is doing or could do to the nerve roots. To me it is potentially dangerous and could potentially cause more problems than what is worth such as bowel and bladder issues. Sorry Melody, I don't mean to sound abrupt. But obviously Alan has two separate issues going on...the PN and the spinal disorders. I would NOT, NOT, NOT do the traction. I was just talking to a gal the other day that was doing lumbar traction and now she is much worse off. I simply wouldn't do it and I would find a good spinal PM, NS or OS. I know people are going to disagree with me. But considering Alan has stenosis and all kinds of spinal issues, I would not let anyone or anything manipulate my spine at all!

PainMD,

EXCELLENT point! Peripheral and central are two totally different beasts. AGAIN, two different and distinct processes!

MelodyL

04-10-2007, 08:13 AM

Jarrett:

Don't worry, he's not having any kind of traction. Right now, he's getting a home infusion of gammaglobulin and as soon as the meds started to go into his body, the PN in his feet stopped. He just looked at the nurse and said "wow, this thing kicks in fast, doesn't it??" The nurse said "oh, yes, it does that from time to time. NOt with everybody but ocassionally, like for example, I have a patient with MS who could not see out of one eye, when I administered the home infusion, she was able to get vision back in that eye".

So sometimes, this IVIG thing works faster for some people than for others.

And as for anybody touching Alan's spine, you would not believe what I do for him when he lays down. I take my arm and press up and down pounding into his spine. He goes to heaven. Been doing this for 5 or so years.

I even showed the chiropractic/neurologist how I do this. This was during Alan's first appointmet wth Dr. Theil, his chiro/neurologist. Dr. Theil said "well, he obviously likes it and it makes him feel better so go for it".

I showed Dr. Theirl exactly what I do. Maybe I'm re-alligning his spine, I have no idea, but his PN got better (with Dr. Theirl and his adjustments) and my pounding on his back at night. I once got my friend Elaine, who is anorexic and weighed all of 80 lbs at the time.

Alan got down on the floor and she walked on his spine. Well, he was not only in heaven, he said "anytime you can get her to come over and walk on my back, go for it". Unfortunately she now has Stage 3 cancer and isn't walking on anyone's back but for a time, Alan loved it.

If I got on his back, I'd break it......lol
Maybe someday, when I'm nice and skinny.

We did tell Dr. Theirl about her walking on his back and Dr. Theirl said "no one should ever walk on anyone's back" but he did chuckle.

mel

nolebuc1

04-18-2007, 03:21 PM

Hey Mel,

I also was doing some independent research on the DRX 9000 and found this forum. I heard an advertisement for the machine on a local talk show here in Charlotte, NC and told my wife about it. She has been suffering from painful DDD for years and is at the point where she will try anything.

Here is the problem I have with the whole thing. The chiros who are buying this machine are all obviously going to a training class to sell the procedure. The initial consult was absolutely the same as everyone else has stated: "Let me see if you are a candidate", "how has this affected your life", your husband/spouse must be present when we decide if you will be accepted"... I am a salesman by profession and this is high pressure sales at its best! The chiro my wife went to even held her hand and said "I know how much you are suffering". His waiting room was filled with Christian books... I would presume that these guys are dropping a hundred grand or more for this machine and must charge these exorbitant prices to quickly earn their money back. The thing that concerns me most is that even if the machine has some real benefit, why all the smoke and mirrors and high pressure pitch to get you to sign on the dotted line. I just can't help but feel that these people are preying on people's misery. My wife is at her final review for acceptance meeting right now as I type and very angry that I did not go, but as I told her I do not need to sit and watch your eyes fill with tears as you are told this could be your cure and then have to sit and critique the whole thing and feel like a jerk. That is why the spouse is asked to come. The inversion table sounds like the best next course of action. Any feedback from anyone with DDD that has tried this would be great. Take care all.

MelodyL

04-18-2007, 04:52 PM

You sound like a very caring and good hubby!!!

I hope your wife finds an end to her pain.

In my husband's case (and I consider him lucky) he has been told to exercise, he DOES IT!! and it helps.

But, he does not have an back pain. Never did. We just thought his neuropathy came from his back. About 6 doctors have now told us that IT'S NOT HIS BACK!!" I guess we have to listen to them, right??

People with back pain, well, how on earth can they exercise?? It must be excrutiating!!!!! I remember, years ago, when I had sciatica attacks.

If someone had told me to exercise, I think I would have EXERCISED them on their heads. My goodness, I couldn't even get out of bed and when I did get out of bed (just to go to the bathroom), I felt like my body weighed 2000 lbs. It was that hard to walk. But I went to a doctor and was told to do certain EXERCISES. Bend this way, bend that way. I thought she was nuts, but as I began to get better, I did the exercises.

I never stopped. And even though I have scoliosis, I still do the exercises. Maybe I'll stop when I'm 100. Who knows??

So now he's undergoing IVIG and we'll see where that leads us.

Take care and hopefully your wife will get some peace.
Hope it all works out.
Keep us informed okay?

Melody

nolebuc1

04-18-2007, 09:42 PM

Well, my wife came back and she is not currently speaking to me... Mel, if you don't mind me asking how did you address the sciatica pain? My wife has radiating pain into her leg from the nerve damage from the DDD. I am trying to get her to lose 20-25 lbs and start using the inversion table. Does that sound reasonable? It is so terrible to watch your spouse suffer. You seem like a very caring person. Thanks for starting this thread and responding so faithfully to people.

MelodyL

04-18-2007, 10:07 PM

Okay: here's my response and you might think it comes across as too personal BUT I am a caring person and I say this with love.

Any excess weight on a person's body will do NO GOOD for sciatica. It just puts too much stress on the joints, the back, the core, EVERYTHING.

I once weighed close to 300 lbs. Years and years ago. What this extra weight did to my knees and my back, well forget it.

I had back pain most of my life and I was obese most of my life.
The First time sciatica pain hit me I thought i would die. It's that formidable. Went to the doctor and of course I got the "lose weight speech". I got mad at the doctor and said to myself 'who on earth is this skinny person telling me to lose weight"?? You see I wasn't alble or ready enough to face my obesity. I just wasn't. NO one could make me either. It had to come from me.

It had to be a lightbulb moment when you have such pain that you say: "what the hell am I doing to my body .' I used to self-medicate with food, with chips, dips, prezels, orange cupcakes (my favorite at the time)
I remember when my son left home when he was 20, I had a picnic that night. All the ding dongs, all all the milk, the party mix, the chex mix, and the thick potato chips with the dips. These are my triggers and I no longer keep them in my home. I know better. I went to a nutritionist who explained that FAT PEOPLE are not always hungry. You find the reason that a person eats all the time and you'll have a better understanding of why they are obese.

I love salads, fresh veggies, chicken cutlets (not fried), fish, (with creole seasoning). I do not eat after 7 p.m. I do not snack at night. I have learned portion control. I don't eat any sugar, nothing fried, I do stir fry though. I've learned to use Mrs. DAsh. You see what I had was a very bad habit (a habit I had to change).

When a person gets sick enough, gets scared enough and in my case, when I find out I had neuropathy, I never wanted another outbreak of the burning pain, the pins and needles, so I do everything I can do to keep my blood sugar normal. Also, it's kind of nice to wear nice clothes and no one looks at you when you go anywhere and they are thinking "look at that overweight person". I had that for many years.

It's all a mind thing. Something has to click in your wife's mind.
Be supportive, be understand, don't make fun of her and make sure she knows you love her. I dont' know exactly how much overweight she is carrying on her frame. But if it's over 35 to 40 lbs, it's a strain on her body. My friend's daughter is over 500 lbs. she's only 29 years old.
I know many overweight people who look at me and thing "oh you must thing you are hot stuff because you lost the weight. This is called jealousy. I've learned who my real friends are.

Just continut to gently support her. Is she amenable to your mentioning her being overweight??? I most certainly was not.

Only whe she is ready, will she lose the weight.

Write me any time and I'll tell you the foods i eat that they definitely take the weight off.

So good luck and say hi to your wife for me.

Sincerely, Melody

QueenMary50

04-22-2007, 11:55 AM

Mel - I'm new to this site, but I have to tell I am thankful for the information you have shared! My husband has back/neck problems; I was just diagnosed with degenerative disc problem in neck - I've been in pain for past 3 weeks, but with help of my Chiro - he has made the muscle spasm ease and with other treatments I don't fully understand, relieved the acute neck pain. Last night was the first night I slept in bed in a week. Doc used cold laser light to stimulate blood to inflamed area on my neck, did an adjustment with a 'thumper" instrument that looked like a gun - this did micro adjustment to vertebres and then the tinnes electrodes to make muscles relax. I feel better the next day, but 2 days afterward the pain starts creeping back. I also go to gym 4x a week - cardio and weight lifting. I have felt wonderful during the past year. Now suddenly this pain has occured and no I didn't lift inapproprately. I admit I have very poor sleeping posture and torqued my neck. Doc took xrays and said disc at base of neck was very thin and putting irritation on nerve going to R arm. Told me no more weight lifting with arms for next few weeks, but still go to gym, do low body weight lifting and lots of cardio. Hope Alan is feeling better. You have younger nieces, nephews? - maybe one of them could gently walk on Alan's back.:winky:

Mary
:Thanx:

MelodyL

04-22-2007, 02:09 PM

Hi Mary: So nice to be chatting with you. First of all, go to your local drug store and pick up a little jar of either Blue Stuff (or Blue emu), or an even smaller jar of TIGER BALM. Rub it on your neck, (you only have to use a little). It is GREAT for pain!!!

No, unfortunately we don't have any nieces or nephews. The only person he would let walk on him is my girlfriend who has anorexia and she is battling cancer so she's not walking on anybody's back any time soon. I make her laugh all the time. We can't talk about food because she's anorexic and believe me in her case, that's more deadly than the cancer but she still has a sense of humor. I keep telling her. "you have to beat this so we can go out and get our omelettes, and you can walk on Alan's back". You see, we used to go out to dinner and the only thing she'll eat is an swiss cheese egg omelette. That's her one meal of the day. We can't do that any more because she's so tired from the chemo, she won't eat anything and god forbid her weight goes over 100 lbs. Forget it. Her mother who is 83 can't take it anymore. Her children don't have anything to do with her either. She put them through too much. She was in and out of eating disorder clinics her whole life. It really does devastate a family. It's all depression.

Oh, I have a very funny story to tell you about lifting weights. I've mentioned it before but since you're new here you probably never read this before. It really is funny.

Some time ago (like 9 years), I decided to lose weight and go to the gym. My doctor was after me to shape up and I was finally ready to do it. When he weighed me I was 202 and he went crazy. Now I never looked like I weighed that, because my bones are very dense or something. I look 40 lbs less. So I said to myself, "I'll go to the gym, do the routines, and I'll watch everything that goes in my mouth and I'll lose weight". So that's what I did. I am diabetic so I cut out all carbs, ate only protein, and I went to the gym every day. AND I MEAN EVERY DAY. I did the weights. I went on the machines, I did the repetitions. I LOOKED GREAT. I had some BODY!!!

So a few months later, it was time for my medical checkup. I never weighed myself because I wanted to shock him and shock ME!!! So I went there wearing a pair of spandex shorts and a tank top. I never looked better in my life, believe me. I must have been 50 or 51. I looked good!!!

So I walked into his office, and he takes one look at me and goes "Oh my, look at you, you certainly have been working out and watching, hop on the scale lets' see what you weigh!!!!! I figured I lost 25 lbs and I'd see something like 175. Now if I weigh 175, I look like I weigh 135 because I"m very tall and big boned. Well, I hop on the scale and he goes nuts. He looks at me and says 'my god, what have you been eating??? The scale said 223. I will never forget that number if I live to be 100 years old. Ever see a woman cause a scene in a doctor's office??? Well, that was me, all those years ago. I said "the scale is broke, he says the scale is new". I said to him "Victor, how much do you weigh?? He's about 6 feet 2 inches, a very tall nicely built man. He said "I weigh 195". He gets on the scale. It reads 195. I made the nurses go on the scale, I made everybody in the waiting room go on the scale. I went out of my mind. All my dieting and going to the gym and I gained 22 lbs. I could not believe it.

I immediately went to my gym, went up to the biggest body builder I could find and I exclaimed "Can you please help me?' and this big hunk says to me "why sure little lady (LITTLE LADY!!!!!!), what can I do for you".

I said to him "you can tell me why I weigh 223 lbs?" He just stared at me and said "you weigh what???" are you serious"???. I said: "follow me.... and I got on the scale. He could not believe it. He calls all his body building buddies over and he calls all the trainers over and they are walking around me in a circle looking at my body. I was almost in tears. Finally, one of the trainers said to me "Melody, tell us exactly what you have been doing in this gym for 3 months?" I said "okay, and I showed him how I had been lifting weights every day for 3 months". BIG WEIGHTS. At least for a woman. 40 lb weights. AND I HAVE SCOLIOSIS by the way. And this was during the summer when it was hot outside and my arthritis didn't bother me during the summer". I LOVE IT WHEN IT'S 95 DEGREES OUTSIDE, I have no pain at all.

Well, when I told them what I was doing with the weights, I had 10 men laughing their heads off and I said "what the hell is so funny?" and they calmed down and said "you replaced your fat with muscle". You have been bodybuilding for 3 months. You have muscle mass". I responded "My doctor couldn't care less about muscle mass, he just wants me to lose weight".

They told me "don't worry, it's not fat, it's muscle". Now who on earth, as a woman wants to weigh 223 lbs. Well not me!!! So I immediately stopped the gym thing, and put the weight back on. I never picked up a weight again as long as I lived. Only 3 or so years ago, I began a way of eating (diabetic lifestyle, etc.) and walking and doing some cardio vascular stuff. I have never and I mean never picked up a weight again.

Now when I changed doctors in January, I would not go on the scale. I look perfectly fine but I told Dr. Fred the whole story about the weights. He laughed his head off and thank god he understood because he is also a body builder who is built like Arnold Schwartznegger. He also works out and meets up with my husband at the same gym they both go to. He told me "Melody don't worry, you can go on the scale, close your eyes, tell the nurse you don't want to know what you weigh and I won't tell you.

I haven't had to go to him medically yet. I always accompany Alan on his appointments so I got to know Dr. Fred through my husband. But when I have to go for anything, I know I won't have to look at the scale.

Only the people at Cornell (where I am in their diabetic protocol), they know what I weigh. I don't know and I don't want to know. I get weighed backwards and every time I go I lost maybe 2 or 3 lbs and they get all excited and they go "oh my god, you lost 2 lbs" and I think "you people have lost your mind, what the hell is 2 lbs".?

You see, it's not the two lbs. It's that I consistently lose 2 lbs every month. So it adds up.

I will never pick up another weight. It was explained to me that woman should do small weights with a lot of reps. I had done BIG weighs with a small amount of reps.

DUH!!!!!Maybe someday if I ever get down to 150, THEN I'LL DO SMALL WEIGHTS WITH A LOT OF REPS. I'm still scared to pick up a dumbell!!!

lol Melody

QueenMary50

04-22-2007, 07:48 PM

Mel, I love that weighty story! I know I've gained muscle, weight has remained the same but clothes fit better. I went to gym this afternoon for weight training legs and cardio exercise. Husband not pleased that I haven't 'lost' weight, he's somewhat supportive of my actvities but seems to think I should be rail thin for all the work I do. I've explained many time that having a hypothryoid and take Armour for it makes metabolism slow, building muscle will boost metabolism and it takes time to see outward results. My chiro was pleased to see me take such a turnaround in activities - I've completed 5 5k races in the past year speedwalking. I know I'm healthier, more endurance and strenght. This neck thing is really annoying.

MelodyL

04-22-2007, 07:55 PM

You are absolutely going to have to take your husband with you the next time you see your doctor. Let your doctor know ahead of time that he must explain the weight thing to your husband.

Your husband won't understand any of this until he has a medical professional sit him down, look him in the face and explain exactly what thyroid, metabolism etc. etc. and how it all comes together.

He doesn't get it!!! He just thinks you should be thin. That's all that is on his mind. He has to be educated.

I sincerely believe that once he "gets it"... he will be more supportive.

Maybe you and he can go on walks together in the evening. Kind of like a group walk-a-thon. Great for the legs!!!!

All the best hon and so nice to meet you!!

Melody

QueenMary50

04-23-2007, 09:13 PM

I went to chiropractor today to see x-rays and get another treatment of the thumper adjustment and cold laser. Doc showed me my neck x-rays over the past 10 years, taken at 3 or 4 year intervals. For being a novice I can see in the x-rays the changes that have occured. Its the disc in the middle of neck (don't know the number) that has become very compressed and arthritis can be seen on the bone. Ugh! When did I get old? We discuss other treatment options like the DXR for traction - no, not an option; no to inversion table, suggested I used rolled towel placed behind head which would serve as traction as long as I lay on floor w/towel for 20 minutes daily.- this I can do; too early to even discuss surgery. Doc is pleased with my exercise & weight training wants me to keep moving. Maybe next week he'll let me go back to light arm upperbody weight training. How was Alan's first day back to work?

shiney sue

04-23-2007, 09:58 PM

My son did massage for a Chiropractor when he was still living in Mo.
He said he heard the same thing over and over the man never said no
to anyone. His advice walk out the door and don't look back :( Sue

MelodyL

04-23-2007, 11:59 PM

Wow, they never say no to ANYONE???
What a sham this thing is, isn't it!!!!

Alan's first day went fine. So did his second.

He only works two nights a week and on Monday he goes to a Bible class with a bunch of guys he met at the gym.

Amazing, no?? He's almost 60, has become a bodybuilder and has friends.

Never would have thought it. He was a loner most of his life.

Miracles certainly do happen!!!!

Melody

shiney sue

04-24-2007, 08:18 PM

Does Alan like his job?

I think Bob should have more male friends.

Just to busy with the girls..He starting
to finally bend and SIT a little ;)

Sue

Mike B

01-27-2009, 05:35 PM

There are published studies, one from the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, on the DRX9000. **ask for the report. They will send you a copy. Being of a medical background myself, I would rely more on peer reviewed reports than on testimonial hearsay.

Mike B

Hi All: I'm posting this on both PN boards because I'm not sure who goes to which board.

Hopefully some knowledgeable person out there will be able to answer my question.

Today Alan and I went to a free consultation to a chiropractor that uses the DRX 9000 , the spinal decompression machine table……

Thank God the consult was free
He brought all his previous mri reports. His last was done last year.

After looking at the MRI report she turned to Alan and said “you have severe spinal problems. I really don’t know right now!! You may or may not be a candidate for DRX 9000. We have 11 slots. How important is it to you!!! Alan just sat there and said “well, I want to get rid of my neuropathy”. He had filled out a questionnaire and one of the questions was “how has this affected your life”. And Alan had written “I wanted to commit suicide, the pain was so great”. He then explained that he wrote this 4 years ago before he went to Dr. Theirl and had adjustments.

She said “When you write down I want to commit suicide, that is a powerful statement. How bad do you want to get rid of your neuropathy? Alan honestly did not know how to answer her. He thought he did answer her.

So I interrupted and said “how much are we talking here, how many treatments?” She said “about three months, and it will run between 3 and five thousand, but honestly most of my patients pay $100 a month because their insurance only covers 10% of the treatment.
I said “if the treatment works, why don’t insurance companies pay for the whole thing?” she said “well, this has been around for 6 years, and most insurance companies need a thing to be around for over 11 years. I just stared at her. I then asked her “what’s the worst thing about Alan’s back and she said “well for starters, he has stenosis, he has a lot of disc problems, not just one or two.”

Then she said “you have three options”. 1. You have surgery (you can probably find some surgeon to operate), 2. You do nothing and take pain pills the rest of your life, and 3. You do non surgical decompression (DRX-9000).”

Then she said “the next part of this consultation is the exam and the emg non-invasive scanner.”

So Alan went in for the scan. . The doctor did a Rolling Thermal Scan of his spine. He sat at a computer and she ran this hand-held scanner thing up and down his back. She called it a non-invasive emg.

Then she sits us down and says “tonight I will review all the reports and I will determine if you are a candidate for the DRX-9000. “You are young to have such a bad bad back”. I asked her “when people do the DRX, do they have to stop going to the gym and exercising and she said “absolutely”.

Alan goes to the gym every other day, lifts weights and feels better for doing it. Also, his chiropractor/neurologist Dr. Theirl knows Alan goes and says “go for it”.

Dr. Theirl and Alan’s primary care doctor, Dr. Fred (who he adores), said “alan is not a candidate for surgery”. Dr. Fred also goes to the gym and meets Alan there sometimes.

So I just wanted you guys to see the report and read what this DRX doctor said to Alan and tell me what you think. Do you think his back is as terrible as she told him. I mean the guy goes to the gym 3 times a week, has muscles and the only time his neuropathy drives him crazy is when he lays down at night and after I massage him like crazy, he goes to sleep.
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Here’s what it says on the report:

TECHNIQUE: Neurtal/Sitting: Sagittal T1 Sagittal T2, Axial T1

Interpretation: Desiccation of all the lumbar intervertebral discs is present. Minimal narrowing of the L1/2 disc is present. Ventral marginal osteophytes and diffuse disc bulging are noted at the L1/2 and L2/3 levels. Both bulging discs impinge upon the thecal sac. Moderate narrowing of the L3/4 and L4/5 discs is present. Ventral and dorsal marginal osteophytes and diffuse disc bulging are noted at the L3/4 and L4/5 levels. Both bulging discs cause small ventral impressions upon the thecal sac and extend into the inferior aspects of the adjacent neural foramina bilaterally. Minimal narrowing of the L5/S1 is present. A diffuse disc bulge is noted at the L5/S1 which impinges upon the thecal sac and extendes into the inferior aspects of the L5/S1 neural foramina.

A moderate fat island hemangioma is noted within the L4 vertebral body. Minimal bilateral facet hypertrophy is identified at the L4/5 and L5/S1 levels.

The lumbar lordotic curve is well maintained. There is no evidence of loss of height involving the lumbar vertebral bodies. The bone marrow demonstrates normal signal intensity.

The paravertebral soft tissues demonstrate normal signal characteristics and morphologi appearance.

There is no evidence of spinal stenosis. The cous medullaris and cauda equine demonstrate normal signal intensity. The conus is within normal limits in size. There is no evidence of an intra-dural lesion.

IMPRESSION: L1/2 DISC BULGE, WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC.
L2/3 DISC BULGE WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC.
L3/4 AND L4/5 DISC BULGES CAUSING SMALL VENTRAL IMPRESSIONS
UPON THE THECAL SAC AND PARTIALLY COMPROMISING THE ADJACENT NEURAL FORMAINA BILATERALLY.
L5/S1 DISC BULGE WHICH IMPINGES UPON THE THECAL SAC AND PARTIALLY COMPROMISES THE L5/S1 NEURAL FORAMINA BILATERALLY.
DEGENERATIVE DISEASE.

I really didn’t want this to be a long drawn out posting but if anybody heard anything good about the DRX, I’d love to hear about it. I know we discussed this once on the old boards, but now that he had the free consult (Oh, I forgot to say, I asked the people in the waiting room about it and they were raving about it).

So any input would be most welcome.

We don’t have a lot of money (we don’t have any money to be truthful) but if he gets a part time job we could come up with $100 a month but we are talking about $100 a month for many years here.

We just want to make sure.

Thanks to anybody who can offer any information.

We would really like to know if she interpreted his mri report truthfully.

Thanks,
melody