Why IDD Therapy® is a Safer Alternative to Surgery at Novato, CA

Name: DeSalvo Chiropractic
Telephone: (415) 898-6888
Rating: 4.9

For those suffering from persistent back or neck pain, deciding between spinal surgery and conservative treatments can be challenging. Surgery may be needed in some cases but usually involves significant risks and extended healing times. Many individuals benefit from gentler, non-surgical therapies like IDD Therapy®, which offer pain relief with minimal risks.

Understanding the Challenges of Spinal Surgery

Spinal surgery often involves complex procedures like fusion or disc replacement aimed at stabilizing the spine or relieving nerve pressure. However, surgery is not without its downsides:

- Significant risks including infection, nerve damage, and anesthesia complications

- Lengthy recovery times that can keep patients out of work or daily activities for months

- High financial costs with variable insurance coverage

Possibility of incomplete pain relief or recurrence, sometimes leading to additional surgeries

Because of these factors, many patients hesitate to choose surgery unless absolutely necessary.

What Is IDD Therapy® and How Does It Work?

In Novato, CA, patients suffering from chronic back and neck pain are turning to IDD Therapy® as a trusted, non-invasive option offered right here at our clinic. This computer-guided spinal decompression treatment gently stretches the spine in a controlled way to:

Generate negative pressure inside the discs, encouraging vital nutrient-rich fluids to flow back, which supports healing
Alleviate nerve compression and reduce inflammation that often causes pain and discomfort
Most Novato patients complete a tailored program of about 20 to 25 sessions, each lasting 15 to 30 minutes over several weeks. Our personalized approach ensures treatment fits your lifestyle and health goals in this community.

Comparing Surgery and IDD Therapy®: Risks and Benefits

FEATURE

SPINAL SURGERY

IDD Therapy®

Procedure Type

Invasive surgery involving incisions and tissue disruption

Gentle, non-invasive spinal decompression using advanced computer guidance

Recovery Timeline

Extended recovery periods often lasting weeks to months

Quick recovery with many patients resuming normal activities within days

Potential Complications

Risks include infection, nerve injury, anesthesia reactions

Low risk; no anesthesia or incisions required

Financial Considerations

Often involves substantial medical costs and insurance hurdles

More affordable, with treatment plans customized to Novato patients' needs

Effectiveness

Variable; good for severe structural problems

Effective for disc-related pain and nerve compression

Suitability

Severe spinal degeneration, fractures, instability

Herniated discs, bulging discs, sciatica, chronic back pain

Clinical Evidence Supporting IDD Therapy®

Growing research supports the effectiveness of IDD Therapy® for many patients with chronic back and neck pain. Clinical studies have shown improvements in pain reduction, increased mobility, and enhanced quality of life without the risks associated with surgery.

Our Novato clinic is proud to serve the local community with state-of-the-art IDD Therapy® technology, tailored specifically to the lifestyles of residents in this area.

Invasiveness

High (incisions, implants)

None — external, non-penetrating

Recovery / Downtime

Weeks/months + rehab

Minimal; often immediate return to modified activity

Guaranteed Relief?

Not guaranteed; up to 40% risk of persistent pain (FBSS)

High responder rates of up to 62% in surgical candidates

Risk / Complications

Infection, nerve injury, nonunion, adjacent degeneration

Very low; mostly transient soreness

Patient OOP Cost

Thousands even with insurance (e.g. ~$3,000 for ACDF/PLF)

Lower per-episode costs; fewer ancillary expenses

Adjustability / Repeatability

Difficult; more surgery builds complexity

Can be titrated, repeated, and adapted over time

Disruption to Biomechanics

Alters mechanics permanently

Preserves native structures, minimal disturbance

Clinical Accessibility

Hospital, surgical team, anesthesia

Outpatient spine/pain/rehab clinics

Is IDD Therapy® Right for You?

If you have tried conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication without lasting relief, and want to avoid the risks of surgery, IDD Therapy® may be an ideal option. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if your condition is suitable for this approach.

Taking the Next Step Toward Lasting Relief

Deciding which treatment is right for your spinal pain is a personal choice — one that should take into account your overall health, prior treatments and daily lifestyle. For many people aiming to avoid surgery, IDD Therapy® provides a credible, minimally invasive alternative for achieving meaningful pain relief.

Consult with a chiropractor in Novato to learn more about IDD Therapy® and whether it might be the safer, smarter alternative for your spinal health. We understand the demands of everyday life in Novato, so we design flexible treatment schedules to fit your busy work and family commitments.