Question
I keep seeing the DRX 9000 advertised.
I do agree, that traction is valid.
Also, if one were to check EBay, there are many many
DRX 9000's for sale.
At $100,000 a "pop", I see some slick marketing by the chiros.
Also, some "canned" DRX 9000 scripts. clickl here:
http://coopermarketing.net/

However, if the DRX 9000 is sooo great, why aren't more PT'sand M.D.'s recommending this therapy??  

Answer
Dear Scott,

The Drx 9000 is nothing more than directional traction delivered at a computer generated rate, rhythm, and amplitude.  There are many units on the market that do the same thing and are as equally effective. (Accuspina, Lordex, Spinal Aid, and Chatanooga area few)

Bottom line is that the DRX units are overpriced, and most of the other ones are as well.  This technology has been around for years, and these units shouldn't be sold to doctors for the 6 figure price tags (I was quoted $125,000 for a new one and said no way).  The Chattanooga unit can be purchased brand new for $10,000 and works just fine...it just doesn't come with all the fancy marketing and it doesn't look like a space ship in your office.

The slick marketing claims are actually the product of the DRX 9000 company (axiom worldwide), and they advocate charging the patient up $6000 for a treatment program (which should include rehab as well)...way too much in my opinion...$2000-$3000 is more appropriate.  But when you spend over $100,000 on a machine you have no choice.  The reason you don't see much PT or MD advocacy about it is because they mostly aren't familiar with the technology and they don't own the machines. (not to mention it takes patients away from their businesses)

We utilize a Lordex machine for decompression type cases, and get great results, but everybody doesn't need to be on it!!  Most of our cases are from MD referral, and we don't advertise the machine at all...only traditional chiropractic care, and spinal rehab.  I appreciate your concern about this, and so do many chiropractic state associations.  Many have set limits on what you can advertise and what claims can be made about the effectiveness of the device.  

Good question Scott...I recommend you ask some others about it here on Allexperts and get a few more opinions.

Respectfully,
Dr. J. Shawn Leatherman
www.suncoasthealthcare.net