Recovery

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If you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, you know how concerning it can be. The fear of fractures, chronic

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned after decades of powerlifting, it’s this: you don’t get stronger while you’re lifting—you get

As a competitive powerlifter for more than 40 years, I’ve learned that strength alone isn’t enough. If you want longevity in this sport, recovery and injury management are just as important as what you do in the gym.
Over the years, heavy squats, deadlifts, and the normal wear and tear of training took a toll on my lower back. At one point, I developed a nerve impingement at the L5 level that caused pain and discomfort and affected my ability to train the way I wanted to. Like many lifters, I wasn’t looking for surgery. I wanted to find a solution that addressed the problem while allowing me to continue competing.
That’s when I discovered the DRX-9000 spinal decompression machine.
What Is the DRX-9000?
The DRX-9000 is a non-surgical spinal decompression system designed to reduce pressure on spinal discs and nerves. Using computerized technology, it gently stretches the spine in a controlled manner to create negative pressure within the affected disc spaces.
The goal is to reduce compression, improve circulation to the discs, and create an environment that supports healing.
My Experience with the DRX-9000
When I began treatment, my primary issue was nerve impingement at L5. The discomfort wasn’t just something I felt in daily activities—it affected my training, recovery, and confidence under the bar.
After completing a series of DRX-9000 treatments, I noticed significant improvement. The nerve impingement symptoms gradually diminished, and eventually the pain that had been limiting me was gone.
What impressed me most was that the improvement wasn’t temporary. By reducing the pressure in my lower spine, the DRX-9000 allowed me to return to training with far less discomfort and much greater confidence.
As a result, I was able to continue preparing for and competing in powerlifting competitions, including setting world records at age 70.
Why This Matters for Powerlifters
Powerlifting places enormous compressive forces on the spine. Every heavy squat, deadlift, and even bench press requires the spine to stabilize significant loads.
Over time, that stress can contribute to:
Disc degeneration
Bulging or herniated discs
Nerve irritation
Sciatica
Chronic lower back pain
Reduced mobility
Many lifters simply accept these issues as part of the sport. I know I did for a while. But I learned that maintaining spinal health is one of the keys to staying competitive long-term.
Benefits I Experienced
Reduced Nerve Compression
The biggest benefit for me was the elimination of the L5 nerve impingement symptoms that had been affecting my training.
Improved Recovery
My lower back felt less tight and less compressed after heavy training sessions.
Better Mobility
I noticed improved movement during both training and everyday activities.
Greater Confidence Under Heavy Loads
When you’re worried about back pain, it’s hard to attack a heavy squat or deadlift. Once my symptoms improved, I was able to focus on performance rather than discomfort.
Continued Competitive Success
Most importantly, I was able to continue competing at a high level, setting records and pursuing new goals rather than sitting on the sidelines.
Spinal Health and Longevity
At age 70, I understand that recovery is no longer optional. It’s a necessity.
I use a variety of recovery methods, including proper programming, mobility work, quality sleep, and nutritional support. The DRX-9000 has become one of the most valuable tools I’ve used for maintaining spinal health.
While every person’s condition is different, my experience showed me that non-surgical spinal decompression can be a powerful option for individuals dealing with disc-related back pain and nerve impingement.

Final Thoughts
The DRX-9000 helped me overcome an L5 nerve impingement that was affecting both my daily life and my powerlifting training. It allowed me to return to lifting with confidence and continue competing at a high level.
As powerlifters, we spend countless hours building strength. But if we want to keep lifting for decades, we also have to take care of the structure that supports that strength.
For me, the DRX-9000 wasn’t just about reducing pain. It was about protecting my spine, preserving my ability to compete, and continuing to do what I love.
After more than four decades in this sport, that’s a benefit I don’t take lightly.

Recommended Chiropractors that have DRX 9000 Spinal Decompression Machine.
California
Health Pro Wellness
8941 Adams Ave 
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
(714) 962-8818

Louisiana
Impastato Chiropractic
826 Focis St.
Metairie, LA 70005
(504) 456-8560
EMAIL : impastatochiropractic@gmail.com

Impastato Chiropractic
1447 Lindberg Dr. Suite 203
Slidell, LA 70458
(985) 690-0174
EMAIL : impastatochiropractic@gmail.com

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