Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression: What is It and is It Right for You?

Finding it hard to get out of your bed in the morning and perform daily tasks due to back pain? Many people experience chronic back pain that can last years. Treatment options vary from medications, to temporarily hide the pain, to surgery as the last option—these often do not help resolve the issue.

Before resorting to extreme measures like surgery, chiropractors recommend non-surgical treatment plans such as spinal decompression therapy . While it is not appropriate for all types of pain, spinal decompression is a procedure worth looking into and discussing with a physician for back pain relief .

Down below, we have outlined exactly what you need to know about this form of therapy and whether you are the right candidate for it.

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What is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression ?

This therapy works by stretching and relaxing the spine. By creating negative pressure within the spinal discs, pressure is relieved off the nerves and other structures of the spine.

This procedure can retract or reposition herniating or bulging disc material back in place. The movement of oxygen, water, and nutrients to the spinal discs is also improved, which supports healing. Some patients report some relief after just 1–2 treatment sessions.

Spinal decompression has been around for years, and chiropractors have seen positive results from it. It helps in pain reduction, allowing you to get back to your normal lifestyle. It is a safe procedure with minimal side effects—all the more a good reason to avoid medication and surgery.

What Can You Expect During Your Treatment?

Spinal decompression requires 20 to 28 sessions that last about 30 to 45 minutes each. It is recommended to have treatments 3 to 4 times a week for the first 10 sessions to ensure the most efficient results are achieved.

Expect a stretching sensation and no pain throughout the procedure. During the treatment, you’ll be asked to lie down on the traction table either face up or face down, depending on the area being treated.

For lower back pain, a harness will be placed around the hips and attached to the bottom part of the equipment. The bottom half of the table will slide back and forth to create an alternating axial decompression and rest. For neck pain, a neck cradle will be used, and pressure will pull the head and neck gently to create the alternating axial decompression and rest.

Every time that you do the procedure, your therapist or doctor will adjust the settings of the equipment according to your needs in order to optimize the results.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Spinal decompression is recommended for patients experiencing sciatic pain, bulging discs, disc herniation, degenerative disc diseases, spinal stenosis, facet syndromes, or injured nerves.

While the procedure is generally safe, it is not recommended for everyone with chronic back pain. The procedure should be avoided if you have spinal fractures, tumors, abdominal aortic aneurysm, osteoporotic disease, or are pregnant.

It is important to have your chiropractor conduct a thorough exam and review your medical history carefully before deciding on doing a non-surgical spinal decompression therapy session. Your chiropractor will also discuss the number and frequency of sessions that will be required for best results.

Depending on the patient, other therapy options such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or heat/cold therapy may be recommended.

Book a Consultation Today!

Are you living with chronic back pain, and nothing seems to give you relief? Spinal decompression therapy has helped many patients regain control over their lives. Make an informed decision and consult a trained and healthcare provider to discuss spinal decompression therapy today.

At Tread Well , based in Burlington, we provide leading health care in the area. Our goal is to help you move comfortably. Call us today at 289-337-1657 or visit our Contact page to book an appointment.