What Spinal Decompression Is

Spinal decompression is a computer-guided, non-surgical therapy that gently stretches the spine to reduce pressure inside the discs and around irritated nerves. You’ll lie comfortably on a specialized table while a harness applies precise pull-and-release cycles. The goal is simple: take pressure off bulging or herniated discs, calm the surrounding joints and muscles, and create space for the body to recover naturally.

At Back 2 Back Chiropractic, decompression is often paired with chiropractic adjustments and soft-tissue work. Adjustments restore joint motion; decompression reduces disc pressure and nerve irritation. When paired together, both help your results arrive faster and last longer.

How Spinal Decompression Works

Think of a disc in your spine like a cushion between two vertebrae. When a disc is compressed, its inner gel can push outward and irritate nearby nerves. Decompression creates “negative intradiscal pressure,” encouraging bulging material to retract and drawing in nutrient-rich fluids. Muscles relax, joints loosen, and nerve irritation decreases.

Our table monitors resistance in real time so the pull stays smooth and comfortable. Sessions typically alternate 45–60 seconds of gentle traction with short relaxation periods. For low backs we use a pelvic/chest harness; for necks, a cushioned head support. You remain fully clothed and in control the whole time.

What Spinal Decompression Treats

Spinal decompression is designed for disc-related and nerve-related problems, including:

• Lumbar or cervical disc bulges/herniations (“slipped” discs)
• Sciatica or radiating arm pain/numbness
• Degenerative disc disease and chronic discogenic low-back or neck pain
• Facet joint irritation and some cases of mild-to-moderate spinal stenosis
• Postural or lifting injuries that haven’t responded to rest and medication

If your exam or imaging shows red flags (fracture, severe osteoporosis, unstable spondylolisthesis, active cancer, recent spinal fusion with hardware, pregnancy for lumbar protocols), we’ll discuss safer options. Your safety and success are our main priorities!

Frequency of Treatments

Most care plans typically follow a 4–8 week arc:

Phase 1 (Relief)

2 visits/week for 2-3 weeks to reduce nerve irritation and muscle guarding.

Phase 2 (Correction)

1 visits/week for 3-5 weeks to improve disc hydration and stability.

Phase 3 (Maintenance)

A brief tune-up every 4-8 weeks (or as needed) to prevent flare-ups.

Each session typically runs 15-30 minutes. You’ll also get simple core-stability drills, posture tweaks, and hydration targets that help the discs stay nourished between visits. We reassess regularly and taper as your function improves.

What to Expect

Before

We review your history, perform an exam, and, if appropriate, confirm findings with X-ray or MRI reports. We’ll walk you through positioning and pressure settings so there are no surprises.

During

You’ll lie on a padded table, buckled into a comfortable harness. The table cycles through gentle pulls and releases; many patients describe a pleasant stretch or even doze off. Communication stays open- if you want less or more tension, we can adjust instantly.

After

Most people stand up feeling looser and lighter. Mild soreness (like after a good stretch) can last up to 24 hours and usually fades with hydration and light movement. We’ll send you home with do’s and don’ts (e.g., short walks, avoid heavy lifting that day) to lock in the gains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it hurt?

No. Decompression should feel like a controlled stretch- not a yank. If anything feels uncomfortable, we ask patients to let us know immediately so we can dial it back.

How soon will I feel better?

Some notice relief after a few sessions; more stubborn disc issues typically improve over 4-6 weeks as pressure normalizes and inflammation settles. Typically, the larger the pain and the longer you’ve dealt with it, the longer it takes us to retrain and heal.

Is Decompression the same as traction or an inversion table?

Not exactly. Traditional traction and inversion apply constant force. Decompression uses computer-controlled, intermittent forces and feedback sensors to minimize muscle guarding and target the disc more precisely.

Can I do this if I’m older or have osteoporosis?

Mild osteoporosis isn’t an automatic “no”, but we’ll screen carefully and may modify or choose alternate therapies. Severe osteoporosis is typically a contraindication for lumbar decompression.

Will this replace surgery?

Decompression is non-surgical and often helps people avoid or postpone surgery, but it isn’t a substitute in every case. If you need a surgical opinion, we’ll refer you promptly and coordinate your care with someone we trust to put your care first.

Is it covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan. Our team will check your benefits and go over affordable packages if your insurance plan doesn’t include decompression. But most insurance companies don’t deem Spinal Decompression “medically necessary”, but that’s also why we drop our prices to the floor, so everyone can afford it.

What should I wear and do afterward?

Wear comfy clothes without thick belts or buttons. Afterward, drink water, take a short walk, and avoid heavy lifting the rest of the day. We’ll show you a few quick core and hip moves to support your results.

If nerve pain or a stubborn disc is holding you back, spinal decompression can be a gentle, science-based way forward. Book your evaluation at our Clinic and feel the difference for yourself.