New machine for back pain relief as seen on TV

(This is in response to an inquiry from Mary B.)
Hi Mary--I have not seen the machine you ask about. However I have a patient
used it (same name and costing about $200) for 3 weeks and returned to me
yesterday. The results are very positive for his low-back pain which radiated
into his left leg. His pain is relieved, his range of motion is better, and he is walking
better. He used it daily as directed. He said he was unable to use it on his mid-,
upper back or neck.
As he described the device to me the principle is sound, that is, TRACTION.
"DECOMPRESSION" Has become the latest buzz-word to describe good, old-fashioned
traction.
Here is a list of tractioning procedures:
1. Chiropractic manipulations are tractioning movements. They have the advantage
of being specific and careful.
2. The Spine-o-lator machine I have patients use at my office in preparation for an
adjustment are general and unspecific trationing movements.
3. Massage therapy is targeted tractioning of soft tissues.
4. "Decompression" machine with treatements costing $3000 are simple tractioning
with lots of hype.
5. Even lying on your back with a round pillow under your neck and 2 regular pillows
elevating your knees with your spine forming a kind of bridge is traction.
6. Stretching exercises? = traction.
7. Yoga positions = ditto.

They all work! The methods listed above may be used in conjunction with each
other without conflict despite what health advocates (including MD's) who discourage
procedures different then their own. I am always suspicious of health providers who
say 'don't do this'/'don't do that' when there is a monetary consideration.
As you know I encourage patients to design their own program including chiropractic,
physical therapy (including massage), nutrition, exercise, and sleeping habits.
Thank you for your inquiry.