Spinal Decompression Therapy For Back Pain And Back Injuries

What does the spinal traction or spinal decompression do?

Spinal traction stretches the spine to take pressure off of a compressed discs, the theory is that this process creates a negative intradiscal pressure (pressure within the disc itself), which is thought to have two potential benefits:

• Pulls the herniated or bulging disc material back into the disc
• Promotes the passage of healing nutrients, into the disc and fosters a better healing environment

This straightens the spine and improves the body’s ability to heal itself.  In nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy, the spine is stretched and relaxed intermittently in a controlled manner.

Who Can Benefit From Spinal Decompression Treatment?

People with spinal conditions benefit from this therapy because the traction reverses the force of gravity. It is most commonly used to treat:

• slipped discs
• bone spurs
• degenerative disc disease
• herniated discs
• facet disease
• sciatica
• foramina stenosis
• pinched nerves

How Does Spinal Traction Treatment Works?

You will lie on a traction table that has special tools to stretch the spine. A physical therapist will attach a series of ropes, slings, and pulleys to your body to mechanically relieve the pressure. During spinal decompression therapy for the lower back (lumbar spine), patients remain clothed and lie on a motorized table, the lower half of which can move.

• A harness is placed around the hips and is attached to the lower table near the feet
• The upper part of the table remains in a fixed position while the lower part, to which the patient is harnessed, slides back and forth to provide the traction and relaxation

What are the benefits of spinal traction?

Spinal traction (back traction) is a non-surgical way to relieve pain and correct problems in the spine and offers consistent relief for most people. Decompression therapy is not a magic solution to all your back problems and typically consists of a series treatments in combination with other Physical Therapy and/or Interventional Pain Management Treatments. Treatments are conducted in-office under the supervision of the physical therapist.  Many people find great success with lumbar traction. Treatment reduces pain and the body is more capable of healing itself. Some people only need spinal traction therapy for a short period of time, others need it throughout their lives.