Spinal Decompression

Frequently Asked Questions

Let's answer some of your most common questions about spinal decompression and if it is right for you.

Q: What is spinal decompression treatment?
A: Spinal decompression treatment is a nonsurgical, FDA-approved treatment for back pain. Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine, which takes the pressure off of the discs and nerves in your spine. This allows the discs to heal and the nerves to become uncompressed. We often use spinal decompression treatment with other forms of physical therapy, such as stretching, electrical stimulation, and massage.

Spinal decompression is a type of traction therapy applied to the spine in an attempt to bring about several potential benefits including:

• Create a negative intradiscal pressure to promote retraction or repositioning of the herniated or bulging disc material

• Create a lower pressure in the disc that will cause an influx of healing nutrients and other substances into the disc
  

Q: I have tried everything from physical therapy, stretching and chiropractic adjustments. How does spinal decompression help my back pain?
A: Though traction, physical therapy, and traditional manipulation can reduce disc pressure, it cannot achieve negative pressure, which may be necessary to correct the condition of your spine. The stretching and re-positioning of your spine is slow and gradual, so your body won’t “lock down” or stiffen your back muscles in response during treatment. Spinal decompression is an excellent complement to a more comprehensive treatment plan for your back ailments.

Q: What does spinal decompression do? How does it help?
A: There are many benefits of spinal decompression treatment, which include:

1. It can restore movement, mobility, and function - With this treatment, you could find that. you have improved range of motion and fewer restrictions on your mobility. You may also be able to participate in activities and hobbies that you enjoy, without pain.

2. It can provide relief from pain, numbness, and tingling - If you are experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling in your back, legs, or arms, spinal decompression treatment can provide relief.

3. It can help to prevent further degeneration of the discs and nerves in your spine - Spinal decompression treatment can help to prevent the discs and nerves in your spine from deteriorating further. This is important because it can help to avoid surgery and other invasive treatments.

4. It is a nonsurgical option for treating back pain - Spinal decompression treatment is FDA-approved nonsurgical option for treating back pain. This means that there is no risk of infection or other complications associated with surgery. There might be minor soreness after the treatment, but there is relatively no downtime.

5. It is an affordable treatment option - Spinal decompression treatment is often more affordable than surgery and other invasive treatments.
   

Q: Who should NOT have this treatment?
A: It is important that you discuss treatment options with a qualified medical professional before starting any treatment plan. You may not be a candidate for this treatment if you have any of the following conditions:

• Pregnant

• Fracture

• Tumor

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm

• Advanced osteoporosis

• Metal implants or fusions of the spine