The prospective method of treatment of DDDS is the measured stretching of the spinal column because under the force of gravitation the overloading of the vertebral-motor segment plays a major part in the pathology of this disease. We have studied the effectiveness of the autogravitational training apparatus ‘Gravitrin’ (certificate of conformity No. 4834586). The influence of the apparatus on the body of the recumbent person is achieved by means of an undulating supportive surface, providing measured stretching and creating the anatomically correct form and degree of curvature of the spine. Under the influence of the patient’s weight the transverse ribs of the supportive surface of the device shift from the small of the back, providing the effect of gentle, measured and even stretching of all the spine’s divisions. A comfortable position on the apparatus contributes to the reflex relaxing of the back’s paravertebral muscles. The supportive surface of the device can be augmented by microvibration and heating to produce the effect of deep, gentle massage. The stretching of the spinal column occurs under the influence of the person’s weight, completely eliminating the risk of complications during ‘Gravitrin’ treatment. The course of treatment varies from 10 procedures (uncomplicated form of DDDS) to 30 (in cases of intervertebral protrusions and middle- and large-size discs’ hernias). In this period the patient’s height increases from 0.5 to 2.0cm.With the help of the two-weights test we have studied indirectly the regulation of the body’s static. During treatment asymmetry as a rule decreases, depending on the number of procedures, showing the positive reconstruction of the stereotypical movements. The treatment helped to normalize the vegetative tonus for the majority of patients (the deviation from zero of the Kerdo index became less). The positive dynamic of the spinal column’s mobility was observed. Our experiments have shown the possibility of making effective use of the training apparatus according to the patient’s weight ranging from 38 to 124kg and a height range of 137 to 203cm - 95% of weight/height indexes for sportsmen. The ‘Gravitrin’ can be used at home for the treatment and prophylactic of DDDS as well as in rehabilitation, sports medicine and cosmeticology service.
 
All-Russian Scientific-Practical Conference Dedicated to the 80th Birthday of Professor V. G. Petrukhin MGAFK, 1-2 November, 2001, pages 188-189.