Key takeaways
- Decompression gently stretches the spine at a set angle, force and time, controlled by a computer.
- It can create negative pressure inside the disc, helping draw in fluid and nutrients and ease pressure on nerves.
- It's used for disc herniations, bulges, degeneration, sciatica and some cases of stenosis.
- It isn't for everyone: pregnancy, recent fractures, severe osteoporosis and some other conditions rule it out.
For many of our patients, the answer is yes. But it helps to understand what decompression is, and what it isn't.
What is non-surgical spinal decompression?
Non-surgical spinal decompression is a type of spinal traction. You may be familiar with simpler forms of traction, like inversion tables, hanging from a bar, or a manual flexion-distraction table. Decompression goes further.
Three things define true decompression: a specific angle, a specific force, and a specific time, applied by a motorized, computer-controlled system. By slowly and gently stretching the spine, it can create negative pressure in the disc spaces between the vertebrae. That encourages water, oxygen and nutrients to move into the discs. As a disc rehydrates and regains some height, it can also pull back from a compressed nerve, which can ease pain, numbness and tingling.
How is it different from regular traction?
When you're simply pulled, your muscles tend to tighten to protect the spine, which works against the stretch. A decompression system monitors your body's response many times per second. When your muscles tighten, it eases off; when they relax, it gently increases the pull. It also cycles the force up and down. That lets the spine relax into the treatment rather than fight it.
What does a treatment feel like?
We use the DRX9000. You lie comfortably on your back with two harnesses: one around your waist, connected to the decompression system, and one around your chest, which holds you steady on the table. The doctor sets the angle, force and time for your specific condition and spinal level. Most people find it relaxing. A session usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Decompression works best as part of a plan. It's normally combined with spinal adjustments, stretches, core strengthening and hands-on muscle work.
What conditions is it used for?
- Herniated and bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sciatica and pinched nerves
- Lower back pain and neck pain related to the discs
- Some cases of spinal stenosis
- Facet joint irritation
The DRX9000 is FDA-cleared for the treatment of herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease and posterior facet syndrome.
Who shouldn't have decompression?
- Pregnancy
- Recent spinal fracture
- Severe osteoporosis
- Cancer that has spread to the spine
- An unstable spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
- Certain spinal implants or recent spine surgery
That's one reason we start every new patient with a thorough two-part evaluation. We'll tell you honestly whether decompression is a good fit for you.