Spinal Decompression
Unlocking Relief: What You Need to Know About Spinal Decompression
Therapy Back pain affects millions of people every year — from office workers glued to their chairs, to athletes pushing their physical limits. While chiropractic adjustments are a well-known treatment option, there’s another powerful tool that chiropractors often use to help relieve spinal pressure and restore function: spinal decompression therapy.
But what exactly is spinal decompression?
Who can benefit from it?
And how does it fit into a holistic approach to spinal health?
Let’s dive in.
What is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical, traction-based therapy designed to relieve pressure on the spine, particularly the intervertebral discs and spinal nerves.
The treatment gently stretches the spine in a controlled way to:
- Reduce pressure on compressed discs
- Create space for bulging or herniated discs to retract
- Increase circulation of oxygen and nutrients to the discs
- Decrease inflammation and nerve compression
It’s commonly used to treat conditions such as:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Sciatica
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Chronic neck and back pain
How Chiropractors use Spinal Decompression
Chiropractors often use motorized decompression tables, where the patient lies down comfortably while a harness system gently pulls the spine in cycles of traction and relaxation.
Each session typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes, and a treatment plan may include multiple sessions over several weeks.
Some chiropractors may also use manual decompression techniques or combine spinal decompression with other therapies such as:
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Soft tissue mobilization
• Rehabilitation exercises
Spinal Decompression + Chiropractic Adjustments = Better Results
Spinal decompression doesn’t replace chiropractic adjustments — it enhances them.
When the spine is decompressed, there’s less tension in the muscles and less pressure on the joints. This makes it easier for chiropractors to realign the spine gently and effectively. Additionally, decompression can help maintain the results of an adjustment by addressing the root cause of misalignment, such as disc compression or nerve impingement.
Together, decompression and adjustments form a powerful duo to restore mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term spinal health.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Spinal decompression is a safe, non-invasive therapy, but it’s not suitable for everyone.
Ideal candidates are often those with:
• Chronic back or neck pain • Disc-related conditions • Sciatica or radiating leg/arm pain
However, people with spinal fractures, tumors, advanced osteoporosis, or metal implants may not be eligible. A chiropractor or healthcare provider can evaluate your condition and determine if decompression is right for you.
If you’re dealing with persistent back or neck pain, spinal decompression might be the key to unlocking relief. When paired with chiropractic care and a tailored treatment plan, it can help restore proper spinal function, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life — without surgery or medications.
If you’re curious about spinal decompression or want to know if it’s right for your condition, book a consultation with Dr. Loy. He will assess your spine, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the best path forward. Your spine works hard every day — give it the care it deserves.