Unlocking Medicare Benefits for Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression therapy is designed to alleviate back pain by easing pressure on the spinal column. This treatment targets conditions such as:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Pinched nerves
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis

There are two main types of spinal decompression: nonsurgical and surgical. Nonsurgical decompression typically involves lying on a specialized traction table where controlled stretching is applied to the spine to relieve pressure.

Currently, Medicare classifies vertebral axial decompression as lacking sufficient evidence of effectiveness, and therefore, it is not covered under standard plans. Medicare generally excludes treatments deemed experimental or investigational.

When Does Medicare Cover Spinal Decompression Procedures?

Medicare may provide coverage for a specific surgical technique known as percutaneous image-guided lumbar decompression (PILD), which addresses lumbar spinal stenosis by removing thickened ligaments to widen the spinal canal and reduce nerve pressure.

However, this coverage is limited to cases where the procedure is performed within a clinical trial setting under Medicare's Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) program.

Medicare-Approved Treatments for Back Pain Relief

Medicare supports various back pain treatments beyond spinal decompression. For instance, acupuncture for chronic low back pain is covered when administered by a Medicare-certified provider and when specific eligibility criteria are met.

Medicare Part B covers manual spinal manipulation performed by chiropractors specifically for vertebral subluxation.

Prescription medications for back pain may be covered under Medicare Part D, while Part B can cover outpatient drug therapies such as corticosteroid injections.

Additional covered treatments may include nerve stimulation therapies, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and nonsurgical nerve blocks.

For comprehensive details on pain management options covered by Medicare, consult the latest Medicare guidelines and resources.

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