Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the therapist and machine work in treating back pain?

A: Most back problems occur when the ligaments between the vertebrae tighten, this in turn causes a lack of mobility which results in the over stressing of the lower back and/or neck. These stresses can cause neck, shoulder and problems such as prolapsed discs (Slipped discs) sciatica and hip problems.

Q: What does a PAMM Treatment involve?

A: The “Bionic hand” of the PAMM machine is a non intrusive treatment which enables the therapist to manipulate the vertebrae individually, and not by contorting the body out of shape as some traditional therapies do. The user will slowly move the “hand” up the spine stretching the ligaments between each vertebrae.

Q: How long does each treatment take?

A: The first treatment including the consultation takes approximately 45 minutes. Further sessions take 30 minutes.

Q: How many sessions with the PAMM machine will I need?

A: Normally, 3 - 6 sessions. (The Ligaments cannot be stretched fully in one session, so each subsequent treatment they are extended a little further). However, some individuals may benefit from more treatments, e.g. those who have manual jobs or those who partake in sports, but that is entirely up to the individual! When compared to traditional methods of manipulation the PAMM treatments are up to twenty times faster. I recommend the initial three sessions should be had on a weekly basis, but slightly longer or shorter periods are ok. After the initial treatments, a return after one month to review how the back is feeling and also to see if there are any other associated problems which may need attention.

Further treatments can be organised if appropriate on a six monthly basis to keep the spine supple, thus prevention as averse to cure. (Similar to regular visits to the dentist).

Q: What sensation will I get during treatment and will it hurt?

A: You will feel pressure as the “Hand” moves up and down over the spine, but it should not hurt. The pressure exerted on the spine is variable, so if it becomes painful you should tell the therapist. During the first session it can be an unusual sensation but not unpleasant.

Q: How will I feel after the treatment, and what should I do?

A: After the treatment most people experience a feeling of being taller, lighter and much more flexible.

After leaving you should carry on as normal, avoid doing anything which you would not normally do, for example if you have never bungee jumped before, I wouldn’t recommend it immediately after treatment!

Q: What effects can I expect the next few days after the treatment?

A: The next day you may wake up feeling achy, this may seem a disappointment, but in fact is not unusual. After strenuous exercise such as gardening you can feel a bit sore the next day, this is the same after a PAMM treatment. Due to the fact that your muscles and ligaments have a good “work out”. Some people need a couple of painkillers but the majority don’t. This feeling wears off during the day, and gets easier as time goes on.

After a few days your initial problem may return, do not worry though, this again is not unusual. What is happening is the ligaments are shortening again, and need to be re-stretched. This is why three treatments are normally required. More  than three treatments can certainly be advantageous but I leave that up to the individual (what to expect).

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If you would like to discuss further please contact pro-physio Clinics.