IDD Therapy in Essex

What Is IDD Spinal Decompression Therapy?

IDD Therapy is the leading non-surgical spinal decompression treatment. It uses precise angles and computer-controlled, patented oscillatory decompression forces to target specific segments of the spine, alleviating pressure on compressed discs and trapped nerves to promote natural healing and pain relief.

With its patented oscillation feature, IDD Therapy is the gold standard in non-surgical spinal decompression. Be wary of other cheaper, less effective forms of decompression or traction.

Safe, gentle and non-invasive, IDD Therapy addresses the failings of traditional traction and the natural limitations of what clinicians can do with the hands alone. Treatment involves the gentle distraction (drawing apart) of targeted spinal segments to remove pressure from the discs and spinal nerves, reduce pain, promote healing and improve mobility.

One of the UK's Most Experienced IDD Providers

We are one of the UK's most experienced providers of IDD Therapy. In 2011 we proudly established the first clinic in Essex, and the 3rd in the UK, to offer IDD Therapy. Two years later, after our success in Chigwell, we established the first IDD Therapy clinic in London city centre.

We have patients coming from all over London and Essex for treatment of sciatica, stenosis, trapped nerves and worn discs, including self-referrals and referrals from spinal surgeons.

Conditions Treated with IDD Therapy

• Slipped, bulging or herniated discs in the lumbar spine (low back) or cervical spine (neck)
• Degenerative disc disease and Modic change
• Sciatica (leg pains from the back) and pinched or trapped nerves
• Disc protrusion, prolapse or spondylosis (disc thinning)
• Stenosis (canal or foraminal) and facet pain
• Chronic low back pain and morning stiffness
• Tingling and numbness in the arms or legs
• Stiffness in the back or neck, weakness when lifting
• Difficulty bending, sitting or standing

Why Choose IDD Therapy at Spine Plus?

• One of the UK's most experienced IDD providers (since 2011)
• Available at Chigwell and Gidea Park (Romford) clinics
• We scrutinise your MRI images, not just the radiologist's report
• We work closely with spinal consultants and radiologists
• Free MRI evaluation and consultation to assess suitability
• Super friendly staff dedicated to helping patients with chronic pain
• Close to public transport; parking on site

How Does IDD Therapy Work?

Each treatment on the SPINA machine lasts approximately 25 minutes. Before treatment, infrared heat is applied to the area to increase blood flow. After treatment, cold packs are applied to reduce inflammation and encourage improved collagen formation within healing discs.

As the joints are gently distracted, pressure is taken off the disc, joints and nerves. The targeted spinal segment is mobilised to create pressure differentials that improve the flow of fluid and nutrients into the disc space. These fluids help with healing and repair, and the gentle, oscillating movement helps joints become lubricated and move more freely.

Treatment frequency: 2 to 4 sessions per week is optimal. Most patients report a decrease in pain after the first handful of sessions, with substantial improvement by the second week (10 to 15 sessions).

Not All Back Pain Is the Same

If you have been told you have a disc bulge, herniation or nerve irritation, it is important to understand that general back pain care and specialist disc care are not the same thing.

A disc injury involves altered spinal loading, internal disc pressure changes and nerve root irritation. Treating this correctly requires a clear understanding of disc biomechanics, accurate MRI interpretation, knowledge of directional loading strategies and structured, staged rehabilitation.

If you have already seen a general physio or chiropractor and initially improved, but your symptoms have now plateaued, that is often a sign you have reached the limits of general care. IDD Therapy may be the next step.

Is IDD Therapy Suitable for You?

Inclusion Criteria

• Herniated or bulging lumbar or cervical disc with pain lasting more than 4 weeks
• Recurring pain from failed back surgery (more than 6 months ago)
• Degenerative disc not improving after 4 weeks of conventional treatment
• Available for 6 weeks of treatment; at least 18 years old

Exclusion Criteria

• Pedicle screws, rods or other spinal appliances
• Lumbar fusion less than 6 months old
• Metastatic cancer
• Extreme osteoporosis (DEXA Z score below -2.5)
• Spondylolisthesis grade 2 or above
• Recent compression fracture below L-1
• Disc infection, severe peripheral neuropathy, or hemiplegia / paraplegia

Research Evidence

• 86% of disc patients achieved good to excellent outcomes (Shealy & Borgmeyer)
• 76% reduction in pain maintained at 1 year (Shealy et al.)
• 79 to 92% success rates with MRI-documented disc rehydration (McClure & Farris)

Pricing

• 60-minute initial consultation (including case history, orthopaedic and neurological exam, postural and movement assessment, MRI analysis and treatment planning)
• 30 to 45-minute IDD Therapy session (infrared heat, IDD, cryotherapy): from £80
• Optional bolt-on: TECAR, LASER or Shockwave: +£30

Where to Get IDD Therapy

IDD Therapy is available at our Chigwell and Gidea Park clinics.

Patient Video Testimonials

Hear directly from patients who've been treated with IDD Therapy at Spine Plus.

Frequently Asked Questions