Spinal Decompression Therapy

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal Decompression therapy is a safe & drug free treatment method for patients who suffer from chronic neck & back pain caused by disc problems & other spinal related conditions. Decompression treatment gently stretches the spine through repetitive movements, using a special decompression table. As the table pulls & releases, a negative pressure change is created. This change takes pressure off the spinal discs, which are gel-like cushions between the bones of your spine. As a result, bulging or herniated discs may retract, taking pressure off nerves & other structures in your spine. This in turn, helps promote movement of water, oxygen, & nutrient-rich fluids into the disc. Rehydration of the disc & surrounding tissues & joints creates a physiological change which decreases pain levels & assists the body’s natural healing process.


Spinal decompression therapy is also referred to as non-surgical decompression therapy, since it is often used as a safe, affordable, & extremely effective alternative to spinal surgery. The distinction between surgical & non-surgical spinal decompression is an important one, as surgical spinal procedures are often considered a last option, while spinal decompression therapy is a safe treatment at any stage of back pain.

What is a Decompression Table?

Spinal decompression tables use computerized technology to create negative pressure in the spine. A decompression table has two parts which move independently of one another. During setup, a technician chooses a decompression program that is best suited to the patient’s needs. The right program for an individual will depend on that person’s diagnosis as well as how they have responded to previous treatments.

During a session, the patient is strapped onto the table using a pelvic harness. For lumbar decompression, the lower portion of the body will move to gently stretch & relax the spine based on computerized algorithms designed to maximize the stretch & minimize the body’s resistance to that stretch. For decompression of cervical herniated discs, the upper portion of the body will move.

Does Decompression Therapy Work?

As with any medical treatment, results for spinal decompression therapy will vary depending on the patient. Patients do not tend to feel a tremendous amount of relief after the first treatment. After several spinal decompression sessions, relief should be apparent. In some cases, patients may need to complete their entire treatment plan before they feel complete relief from their symptoms.

A recent low-back pain study found that patients with chronic pain experienced relief from spinal decompression therapy in as little as eight weeks. It is important to note that 80% of the patients in this particular study had been experiencing symptoms for more than 6 months & had tried at least two other interventions to relieve their pain before turning to a spinal decompression table.

Beckley Chiropractic & Wellness is happy to be able to offer spinal decompression therapy at our clinic. If you think that decompression therapy may be beneficial to you, Dr. Beckley is happy to discuss the option & answer any questions or concerns you might have.

Physiological Benefits

  • Reduced Disc Pressure

    Spinal decompression therapy works by gently stretching the spine, which can reduce pressure on the discs - the gel-like cushions between the bones in the spine. This reduction in pressure can help retract herniated or bulging discs, providing relief from nerve compression.

  • Improved Nutrient and Oxygen Flow

    The therapy promotes the circulation of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the discs and spinal tissues. This improved circulation can foster a better healing environment and aid in the repair of damaged discs.

  • Pain Relief

    By alleviating pressure on spinal nerves and discs, spinal decompression therapy can significantly reduce pain in the back and neck. This is particularly beneficial for chronic conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis.

  • Reduced Nerve Compression

    The therapy can help decompress the spinal nerve roots, which is often the source of back and leg pain. This can improve nerve function and alleviate symptoms like pain, tingling, or numbness.

  • Enhanced Spinal Mobility

    Regular spinal decompression sessions can help improve the flexibility and mobility of the spine, contributing to a greater range of motion and overall physical function.

  • Non-Invasive Treatment

    As a non-surgical option, spinal decompression therapy offers a significant benefit for those seeking alternatives to more invasive procedures.

  • Reduced Reliance on Medications

    For some patients, this therapy can reduce the need for pain medications, including opioids, which have potential side effects and risk of dependency.

Physical Benefits

  • Relief from Back and Neck Pain

    By creating negative pressure within the disc, spinal decompression therapy can alleviate pain caused by herniated discs, bulging discs, and other spinal issues.

  • Reduced Nerve Compression and Sciatica Symptoms

    The therapy helps relieve pressure on pinched or compressed spinal nerves, addressing conditions like sciatica, which causes pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

  • Improved Disc Health

    Decompression encourages the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the discs, promoting healing and reducing degeneration.

  • Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility

    By reducing pain and stiffness in the spine, spinal decompression can lead to improved range of motion, making daily activities and physical exercises more comfortable.

  • Decreased Use of Medications

    Effective pain relief through decompression therapy can reduce the need for pain medication, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids.

  • Prevention of Surgery

    For some individuals, spinal decompression therapy can be an alternative to surgery, especially for those with conditions like herniated discs or chronic lower back pain.

  • Improved Posture

    By aligning the spine and relieving tension, the therapy can contribute to better posture, which in turn reduces the risk of future back problems.

  • Long-Term Pain Management

    Regular sessions of spinal decompression therapy can provide sustained pain relief, contributing to an overall better quality of life.