How Does Spinal Decompression Work?

What is spinal decompression?

Back decompression is a nonsurgical therapy used to alleviate back and/or leg pain. Spinal decompression treatment involves used a traction table to stretch the spine so that pinched nerves or bulging discs can return to their appropriate place.

Traction and decompression create a conducive healing environment for bulging and herniated discs that tend to cause pain in the back and legs. Decompression creates space in the spine, relieving intra discs of pressure, allowing any bulging material to return to its respective space. By taking pressure off the discs, the material has a chance to breathe, to slow and to accept nutrients necessary for its healing.

How does decompression therapy work?

In a controlled setting, a chiropractor uses a traction table to intermittently and consistently stretch and relax the spine. During the intervals of additional space, bulging material is brought back into the disc and a passageway for healing nutrients is created to the spine’s misalignments can heal.

When patients undergo lumbar spine decompression therapy, they lie face down on the table and get harnessed in around the hips. The harness attaches to the lower table near the feet; this part of the table will slide back and forth, subtly, to create the sensation of relaxation and physically introduce new space into the spine. Some therapies have patients lie facing up- leave it up to your chiropractor to determine which method is best for your healing.

What can I expect from decompression therapy?

Except to sign up for 15-30 treatments, each at 30-45 minutes, depending on the chiropractor’s suggested. The treatments should be completed in a four to six-week span.

The chiropractor might apply additional treatments during your sessions, such as cold therapy, heat therapy, ultrasound or electric stimulation.

Some insurance providers cover traction therapy, but it varies plan to plan. Make sure to check with your provider or switch to a carrier that can help cover the costs.

Are there any precautions to take during therapy?

• Drink extra water during your treatment period
• Rest often
• Consult your chiropractor about nutritional supplements
• Complement your program with appropriated at-home exercises  

Who are the ideal candidates for spinal decompression?

• Patients with sciatica, back pain or neck pain caused by herniated, bulging or degenerated disc(s)

Who should not receive spinal decompression?

• Pregnant women
• Patients with failed back surgery
• Patients with spinal fusions
• Patients with vertebrae fractures
• Patients with artificial discs or other spinal implants

Herniated discs can cause severe discomfort. If left untreated, they can impact one’s livelihood. If you experience pain in the lower limbs or tingling and numbness through the shoulders and arms, it’s important to see your physician or chiropractor right away. These tell-tales are not immediate signs that you have a bulging disc, but they’re reliable indicators that something is not functioning as it’s supposed to. In the event of bulging material, it is likely that you can remedy the situation without resorting to surgery.

At BackFit Spine + Health, we believe passionately in assessing the body from a holistic point of view. We get to know your work habits, your life style, your posture tendencies, your diet and your stresses. We evaluate your spinal health by looking at the entire body and your entire life.

If spinal decompression is the most appropriate treatment for you, we will be here to guide you through every session, and we will work with you to create an optimal exercise or physical therapy rehabilitation program to supplement the therapy. Your spinal health is so important, don’t take it for granted or assume any lingering pain will pass. Come in and see us, and get the best chiropractic care in AZ.