By Michael C. Shaffer, D.C., P.A.
Chronic back pain is one of the most common and debilitating conditions affecting adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 40% of adults report experiencing back pain within the past three months. While medications and surgery are often considered the next step after conservative care fails, advanced non-surgical therapies are proving to be a game-changer for many patients. At the state-of-the-art clinic of Dr. Michael Shaffer, two of the most effective non-invasive treatments—spinal decompression therapy and the M7 MLS Therapy Laser—are being used together to achieve optimal results.
This combination targets both the mechanical causes of spinal pain and the inflammatory response that keeps patients locked in cycles of discomfort, stiffness, and reduced function.
Understanding Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression with the HillDT table is designed to relieve pressure on the spine’s intervertebral discs and nerves. Patients lie comfortably on the table where the spine is gently stretched and relaxed, with an actuator system in controlled, computerized cycles. This process creates negative pressure within the discs, encouraging retraction of herniated or bulging material and promoting the influx of oxygen and nutrients into the disc space.
Decompression therapy is especially beneficial for conditions such as:
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis
• Facet joint syndrome
• Chronic neck or low back pain
Clinical research supports its effectiveness. In a study published in the American Journal of Pain Management, 71% of patients treated with spinal decompression reported significant pain reduction, and many were able to avoid surgical intervention altogether.
The Role of MLS Laser Therapy
While spinal decompression addresses the structural cause of spinal pain, the M7 MLS Laser Therapy system targets inflammation and tissue damage at the cellular level. MLS stands for Multiwave Locked System, a patented dual-wavelength laser technology that delivers synchronized light energy to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate healing.
This therapy works by stimulating cellular activity in damaged tissues—a process known as photobiomodulation. The M7 robotically scans the treatment area and delivers consistent, calibrated energy across joints, muscles, ligaments. It is FDA-cleared and backed by decades of research around the world.
Key benefits of MLS Laser Therapy include:
• Reduction of inflammation and edema
• Improved circulation and oxygenation
• Accelerated tissue repair
• Decreased nerve sensitivity
• No side effects or recovery downtime
In a randomized, double-blind clinical study, MLS laser therapy showed a greater than 80% suc-cess rate in reducing chronic musculoskeletal pain, particularly in patients with arthritis, neuropathy, and spinal disc conditions.
Why These Two Therapies Work Better Together
Pain in the spine is rarely due to a single factor. It often involves disc dysfunction, nerve compression, inflammation, and muscular imbalance, all of which need to be addressed for lasting relief. By combining spinal decompression with MLS laser therapy, patients benefit from a dual-action approach:
• Spinal decompression creates negative pressure within the disc, reduces pressure on nerves, and promotes disc healing through rehydration.
• Laser therapy reduces inflammation, calms nerve activity, and accelerates tissue regeneration at the cellular level.
Together, these therapies complement each other to treat both the cause and the symptoms of pain. In clinical practice, patients often experience significant pain relief and improved mobility when these advanced technologies are used synergistically.
Who Is a Candidate?
Patients with the following conditions are often excellent candidates for combined decompression and laser therapy:
• Chronic low back or neck pain not responding to conventional treatment
• Sciatica or radiating nerve pain from disc bulges
• Post-surgical spine patients with lingering pain
• Degenerative joint or disc disease
• Athletes recovering from spine-related injuries
These therapies are particularly beneficial for patients who want to avoid opioids, steroid injections, or surgery, and are looking for a safe, evidence-based alternative to manage their condition.
When to Seek Help
If you’re living with persistent pain, tingling, numbness, or reduced mobility, it’s time to explore advanced non-surgical solutions. Left untreated, spinal conditions can worsen over time, potentially leading to permanent nerve damage or loss of function. Early intervention with spinal decompres-sion and laser therapy can prevent further deterioration and restore quality of life.
Dr. Shaffers goal is to identify the root cause of your pain and provide effective, personalized care using today’s most advanced technologies. Call today to schedule your consultation and discover how this powerful combination therapy can help you move and feel better—without surgery or medication.
Personalized Care at Michael C. Shaffer, D.C., P.A.
Dr. Michael Shaffer has been serving Collier County since 1981, specializing in spinal care, musculoskeletal conditions, and rehabilitation. Each patient receives a tailored treatment plan based on a comprehensive assessment, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Michael C. Shaffer, D.C., P.A.
(239) 793-3200
www.drmichaelshaffer.com
671 Goodlette Rd., Unit 160
Naples, FL 34102