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Traction vs IDD Therapy

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Back In Health – first in Singapore with IDD Therapy

For years, clinics used traction tables and inversion devices to “pull” the spine and try to relieve back or neck pain. 

It sounds logical – create space, reduce pressure, feel better. 

But real life is not so simple, and the results often aren’t great. That is why at Back In Health, we have invested in IDD Therapy, a modern form of non-surgical spinal decompression. 

We are proud to be the first clinic in Singapore to offer IDD Therapy. 

Why old traction often falls short 

Traditional traction usually works like this: 

  • You are strapped to a table 
  • A straight line pulling force is applied to your spine 
  • The pull is held for a while, then released 

The problems: 

  • It pulls the whole area, not the exact disc level, causing trouble 
  • The body often “fights back” by tightening and guarding 
  • There is no real-time adjustment based on how your body responds 
  • Many studies show limited long-term benefit when traction is used alone 

Back pain, sciatica and disc problems involve irritated nerves, stiff joints, dehydrated discs and tight muscles all at once. A simple, one-direction pull is too basic for such a complex system. 

What is non-surgical spinal decompression with IDD Therapy 

IDD stands for Intervertebral Differential Dynamics. 

IDD Therapy is a computer-guided form of non-surgical spinal decompression designed specifically for disc and nerve problems in the neck and lower back. 

A typical session: 

  • You lie comfortably on the table with a snug harness around your pelvis and chest 
  • The computer applies very precise, gentle pulling forces 
  • We can aim those forces at a specific spinal level, for example, L4–5 or L5–S1 

There are no injections and no “cracking.” Most patients find the treatment surprisingly relaxing. 

What makes IDD Therapy different from traction 

Here are the key differences that matter to patients: 

  • Targeted to the exact level 
    We can focus on the disc segment shown on your MRI, rather than pulling the whole spine. 
  • Gentle, rhythmic movement 
    Instead of one long, hard pull, IDD Therapy uses slow cycles of stretch and relax with built-in micro movements (oscillation). This helps muscles to relax, joints to move and discs to rehydrate. 
  • Smooth, controlled forces 
    The pulling and releasing follow smooth curves, not sudden jerks. This is kinder to irritated tissues and more comfortable. 
  • Computer-guided and consistent 
    Forces, angles and timing are all set by software following established protocols. We can adjust the settings for your body and your progress, while built-in safety limits protect you. 

In short, IDD Therapy is smart, targeted non-surgical spinal decompression – not just “stronger traction.” 

Who might benefit 

Non-surgical spinal decompression with IDD Therapy may help people with: 

  • Lumbar or cervical disc bulges and herniations 
  • Sciatica and nerve pain from disc problems 
  • Degenerative disc disease 
  • Some forms of facet-related pain 
  • Persistent back or neck pain not improving with standard care 

It is not suitable for everyone. Before starting, we always: 

  • Take a detailed history 
  • Examine your spine, strength and nerves 
  • Review X-rays or MRI if available 
  • Screen for conditions where decompression is not appropriate 

 

Back In Health – first in Singapore with IDD Therapy 

We chose IDD Therapy because we wanted a safer, smarter and more effective option for patients with stubborn disc and nerve problems. 

At Back In Health Singapore, IDD Therapy is not used alone. It is combined with: 

  • Osteopathic manual treatment 
  • Individualised exercise and strengthening 
  • Advice on posture, work set-up and activity 
  • Long-term strategies to keep your spine healthy 

The goal is not only pain relief, but better function and confidence in your back. 

Thinking about non-surgical spinal decompression in Singapore 

If you have tried traction or you are still struggling with back or neck pain despite treatment, it may be time to look at a more advanced option. 

As the first clinic in Singapore to offer IDD Therapy non-surgical spinal decompression, we are happy to assess whether this approach is right for you. 

Contact Back In Health to arrange a consultation. We will go through your history, examine your spine, review any scans and give you clear, honest advice on your best next step. 

 

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