How does IDD therapy treatment actually work – and is it safe?

How does IDD Therapy treatment actually work – and is it safe?

Are you wondering how IDD Therapy heals a herniated, slipped or bulging disc—and whether it’s safe? You’re in the right place. Below, I’ll explain in straightforward, in a straight-forward way—what IDD means, how it works, what you feel in a session, and the safety steps we take before anyone starts treatment. Find out more about IDD therapy

What is IDD Therapy?

IDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Decompression. In simple terms, it’s a computer-controlled, non-surgical spinal decompression treatment designed specifically for disc problems and related nerve pain (like sciatica). 

If you picture a disc like a water balloon—or, better yet, like a car tyre—it’s easy to see the problem. When a disc loses internal pressure, it can bulge into the space where the spinal nerves run. Those nerves are extremely sensitive, so compression can cause:

• sharp, searing pain

• pins and needles, tingling or burning

• numbness

• sometimes, reduced strength or power in a limb

  
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How IDD Therapy actually works (the 3 key actions)

You lie comfortably strapped and supported on the treatment table while the device targets the specific spinal segment shown on your MRI and exam. Find out more about IDD therapy

1. Gentle targeted stretch (decompression)
   The machine selectively distracts the affected level to reduce pressure on the disc and nerve—like taking your hand off a sore spot so it can begin to settle and heal.

2. Oscillation (a therapeutic “wiggle”)
   The system then oscillates the segment. Think of this as a precise, gentle wiggle that helps draw fluid back into the disc, much like pumping up a tyre. Better fluid exchange = better disc nutrition.

3. Pressure change = space to heal
   With pressure lowered and fluid moving, bulging material can be re-absorbed, the nerve irritation calms, and your spine can start to move and function more normally.

In short: decompress + re-hydrate + calm the nerve.

What you’ll feel in a session

Most people describe the session as comfortable, a relieving stretch, sometimes with a gentle rhythmic movement at the target level. You’re supported by ergonomic harnesses, and the table can tilt to make getting on/off easy. Sessions are typically delivered as a course of treatments, because discs and nerves heal gradually.

Is IDD Therapy safe?

When delivered by trained clinicians—and after proper screening—IDD Therapy is considered safe and non-invasive. Before we start, we:

• Review your MRI and perform nerve and orthopaedic tests

• Confirm that IDD is appropriate for your specific disc level(s) and symptoms

• Explain what to expect and answer questions

Common experiences: temporary post-treatment soreness (like you’ve stretched), which usually settles quickly.

Who it may not suit: people with spinal fractures, active cancer, severe osteoporosis, recent spinal surgery, pregnancy, or certain other conditions. We screen for these during assessment.

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Results you can look for over a course of care

• Less pain and reduced nerve irritation

• Improved mobility and confidence in movement

• Signs that the disc is working better (less “pinching” type symptoms)

• You'll gradually start to be able to get back to things you love - walking, looking after children/grandchildren, sports and day-to day activities. 

• We also pair IDD with individualised back to work/sports plans and hands-on treatment to help your spine stay strong. 

Quick FAQs

Will one session fix it?
Discs and nerves heal over time. You will need a course of treatment for lasting change.

Does it replace surgery?
IDD Therapy is a non-surgical route that can help many people avoid injections or surgery. If your case requires a surgical opinion, we’ll tell you straight away.

Do I need an MRI first?
Yes—we work with MRI and a thorough exam so treatment is precise and appropriate. We have a rapid referral service for £295 with Vista Diagnostics. I'll even explain it all to you so you undertand your problem clearly. 

Could IDD Therapy Help You?

If you’re living in Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire and struggling with the pain of a herniated, slipped, or bulging disc, IDD Therapy could be the solution that helps you avoid surgery and get back to living

👉 Click on the link before to find a solution to your pain - either a friendly expect call for more information or if you're ready to book, here's our diary: