How Is Spinal Decompression Done?

Are you living with persistent back pain that makes everyday activities a challenge? Have you tried multiple treatments but still haven’t found the relief you’re looking for? If traditional approaches haven’t resolved your spinal issues, spinal decompression therapy might be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Spinal decompression therapy has gained popularity as a non-surgical approach to treating various spinal conditions. This innovative treatment helps alleviate pressure on compressed nerves and discs, providing relief for many patients who thought surgery was their only option. But exactly how is spinal decompression done, and what can you expect during treatment?

At Highland Family Chiropractic in Butte, Montana, we specialize in this effective treatment option for back and neck pain. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of spinal decompression therapy, from initial assessment to completion of treatment, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

Understanding Spinal Compression Issues

Before diving into how spinal decompression works, it’s important to understand what causes spinal compression in the first place. Your spine consists of vertebrae separated by discs that act as cushions. When these discs become compressed due to injury, poor posture, or degenerative conditions, they can bulge or herniate, putting pressure on surrounding nerves and causing pain.

Common conditions that respond well to spinal decompression therapy include:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica (pain radiating along the sciatic nerve)
• Pinched nerves in the spine
• Posterior facet syndrome
• Chronic neck and back pain

Many people try to address these conditions with pain medications, which only mask symptoms rather than treating the underlying cause. Others consider surgery, which comes with significant risks and recovery time. Spinal decompression offers a middle ground—a non-invasive approach that directly addresses the source of pain.

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment designed to create negative pressure within the spinal discs. This negative pressure has two primary benefits: it pulls herniated or bulging disc material back into place and promotes the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrient-rich fluids into the discs to encourage healing.

Unlike old-fashioned traction methods that simply stretch the spine, modern spinal decompression is precisely controlled by computer systems. This technology allows for specific targeting of problematic areas and customized treatment parameters for each patient’s unique condition.

There are two types of spinal decompression:

1. Surgical decompression: Invasive procedures like laminectomy or microdiscectomy that remove portions of vertebrae to relieve pressure
2. Non-surgical decompression: The therapy we provide at Highland Family Chiropractic, which uses specialized tables and computer-controlled systems to gently stretch the spine

Non-surgical approaches are generally preferred when possible, as they avoid the risks associated with surgery while still providing significant relief for many patients.

The Spinal Decompression Process: Step by Step

When you come to Highland Family Chiropractic for spinal decompression therapy, here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your journey begins with a thorough evaluation. During this visit, our chiropractors will:

• Review your medical history and any previous treatments
• Perform a physical examination to evaluate your mobility, pain points, and neurological function
• Take X-rays if needed to visualize your spine’s current condition
• Determine if you’re a good candidate for spinal decompression therapy

This comprehensive assessment is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific condition.

Treatment Preparation

Once you’re approved for spinal decompression therapy, we’ll prepare you for your first session:

1. You’ll remain fully clothed during the procedure (though we recommend comfortable attire)
2. Our team will help you lie down on our specialized Triton DTS spinal decompression table
3. A harness system will be gently secured around your pelvis and/or torso, depending on which area of your spine needs treatment
4. The table is then adjusted to the optimal position for your specific condition

During the Treatment Session

The actual decompression process typically follows this pattern:

1. Computerized control: Our Triton DTS system applies precisely calculated forces to your spine through a series of slow stretches
2. Cyclic decompression: The table alternates between periods of stretch and relaxation, typically in 60-90 second intervals
3. Gradual adjustment: The computer gradually increases the therapeutic force throughout the session as your muscles relax
4. Monitoring: Our chiropractor monitors your comfort and response throughout the 15-30 minute session

Most patients report that spinal decompression is comfortable and even relaxing. You may feel a gentle stretching sensation, but the treatment should never be painful. Some patients even fall asleep during their sessions!

Post-Session Procedures

After each decompression session:

1. You’ll be helped off the table and may receive complementary treatments like gentle adjustments
2. We might apply ice therapy to reduce any inflammation
3. Our team will provide instructions for at-home care between sessions
4. You can typically return to normal, non-strenuous activities immediately

Treatment Frequency and Duration

Most patients require a series of treatments for optimal results:

• Typical course: 12-20 sessions over 4-6 weeks
• Frequency: Usually 3-5 sessions per week initially, tapering down as improvement occurs
• Session length: Each session lasts approximately 15-30 minutes

Many patients report feeling some relief after just a few sessions, but the full benefits typically develop over the complete treatment course as discs heal and rehydrate.

Spinal Decompression Equipment and Technology

At Highland Family Chiropractic, we utilize the advanced Triton DTS spinal decompression table. This state-of-the-art equipment features:

• Moveable sections that allow precise targeting of specific spinal segments
• Computerized control systems that customize treatment parameters for each patient
• Sensitive sensors that monitor muscle resistance and adjust accordingly
• Safety features that ensure comfortable, controlled decompression

The sophisticated technology behind our decompression system distinguishes it from simple traction devices. Rather than applying a constant pull, it creates a rhythmic pumping action that overcomes the body’s natural tendency to resist sustained stretching. This results in more effective decompression of the targeted discs.

What to Expect: The Patient Experience

When undergoing spinal decompression therapy, knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable:

• Attire: Wear comfortable clothing (avoiding skirts or dresses)
• Sensations: Most patients experience a pleasant stretching feeling without pain
• Treatment time: Plan to spend about 30-45 minutes at our clinic for each session
• Post-treatment feelings: Some mild soreness is normal after initial treatments, similar to what you might feel after exercise
• Results timeline: While some patients experience immediate relief, most notice gradual improvement over several weeks

One of our patients, who had suffered from sciatica for years, described the experience as “finally feeling like something was actually fixing the problem, not just masking it.” This sentiment is common among those who find relief through decompression therapy after trying numerous other approaches.

Complementary Treatments and Comprehensive Care

At Highland Family Chiropractic, we believe in a holistic approach to spine health. While spinal decompression is powerful on its own, we often combine it with complementary treatments for maximum benefit:

• Chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal alignment and function
• Therapeutic exercises to strengthen supporting muscles
• Hot/cold therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Lifestyle guidance to prevent future issues

This comprehensive approach addresses not just the immediate problem but also the factors that contributed to it, helping to prevent recurrence.

Safety, Risks, and Contraindications

Spinal decompression therapy is generally very safe when performed by qualified professionals. However, it’s not appropriate for everyone. You may not be a candidate if you have:

• Pregnancy
• Fractures
• Advanced osteoporosis
• Certain surgical implants in your spine
• Recent spinal surgery
• Aortic aneurysm
• Active cancer

Minor side effects might include temporary soreness after treatment, but serious adverse effects are extremely rare when the therapy is performed by trained professionals who have carefully screened patients for contraindications.

Choosing the Right Provider for Spinal Decompression

When seeking spinal decompression therapy, the provider you choose matters. Look for:

• Proper credentials: Chiropractors with specific training in decompression therapy
• Advanced equipment: Modern, computerized decompression systems
• Experience: Practitioners who regularly perform this therapy
• Comprehensive approach: Providers who incorporate decompression into a complete treatment plan

At Highland Family Chiropractic, our doctors are graduates of Palmer College of Chiropractic, the premier chiropractic institution in the world. We’ve invested in advanced decompression technology and have extensive experience treating spinal conditions with this therapy.

Conclusion

Spinal decompression therapy offers a non-surgical pathway to relief for many who suffer from chronic back pain, herniated discs, and other spinal conditions. The treatment works by gently stretching the spine to create negative pressure within the discs, allowing them to retract, rehydrate, and heal.

The process itself is comfortable, controlled by sophisticated computer systems, and administered by trained professionals who customize each treatment to the patient’s specific needs. When combined with complementary therapies and lifestyle adjustments, spinal decompression can provide lasting relief and improved quality of life.

If you’re struggling with back pain, neck pain, or radiating nerve symptoms, spinal decompression therapy at Highland Family Chiropractic might be the solution you’ve been searching for. 

Our experienced team is ready to evaluate your condition and determine if this innovative therapy is right for you. Call us today at (406) 782-2557 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.