Spinal decompression therapy is a medical approach used to alleviate pressure on the spinal discs and nerves, offering relief for various back and neck pain conditions. Chronic back pain often stems from issues with the intervertebral discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae. Spinal decompression represents a non-invasive method aimed at restoring function and reducing pain by gently addressing the mechanical source of the problem.
Distinguishing Surgical from Non-Surgical Methods
The term “spinal decompression” refers to two distinct categories of treatment: surgical and non-surgical procedures. Surgical decompression involves physically removing material pressing on a nerve or the spinal cord. Procedures like a laminectomy (removing a portion of the vertebral bone) or a discectomy (excising part of a herniated disc) are examples of this invasive approach.
Non-surgical spinal decompression (NSD) is a traction-based therapy that uses mechanical force to stretch the spine. This method is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and is a lower-risk alternative to surgery. Unlike the surgical option, which structurally alters the spine, NSD works by creating mechanical force to reduce pressure on the discs and nerves.
The Physics Behind Non-Surgical Decompression
Non-surgical decompression operates on the principle of creating negative pressure within the intervertebral disc space. The therapy is delivered using a specialized, computerized table that applies precise, controlled stretching force to the spine. This process uses a sophisticated, intermittent pattern of pulling and relaxing, unlike the simple, continuous pull of traditional traction. This cycling ensures that the body’s protective muscle guarding reflex is avoided, allowing therapeutic force to be applied directly to the spinal structures.
The controlled separation of the vertebrae creates negative intradiscal pressure. This reduction in pressure is significant, changing the internal disc environment from a compressed state (100–300 PSI while standing) to a negative pressure of approximately -100 to -150 PSI during treatment. This negative pressure encourages the central, jelly-like material of a bulging or herniated disc to be gently drawn back toward the center.
The negative pressure also promotes fluid exchange and nutrient flow into the disc. Spinal discs lack a direct blood supply and rely on imbibition for hydration and to receive healing factors like oxygen and glucose. Decompression stimulates the influx of these necessary nutrients, which supports the body’s natural repair process and aids in the regeneration of disc tissue.
Spinal Conditions Treated by Decompression
Non-surgical decompression therapy is primarily used to treat conditions involving disc compression or nerve impingement in the spine.
Herniated or Bulging Discs
The therapy is recommended for herniated or bulging discs, where the soft inner disc material presses upon nearby nerves. By creating space and negative pressure, the treatment aims to reduce the disc protrusion and relieve nerve irritation.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
DDD is a common target for NSD, where spinal discs lose height and hydration over time. Decompression helps eliminate overwhelming pressure on these degenerated discs, which can reduce painful symptoms and improve disc height.
Sciatica and Facet Joint Syndrome
Sciatica, which results from a compressed sciatic nerve, causes radiating pain, numbness, and tingling, and responds well to the pressure-relieving effects of the therapy. Conditions affecting the small joints at the back of the spine, such as facet joint syndrome, are also treated. Gently separating the vertebrae can reduce pressure and inflammation in these joints.
What to Expect During a Treatment Session
A non-surgical spinal decompression session involves lying fully clothed on a specialized motorized treatment table. Depending on whether the lower back (lumbar) or neck (cervical) is being treated, a harness system is securely fastened around the torso and pelvis or the head and neck. The harness connects the patient to the computer-controlled traction device, which precisely administers the stretching force.
The healthcare provider customizes the treatment parameters, including the force, angle, and duration, based on the patient’s specific condition and body weight. Once activated, the machine begins the gentle, cyclical process of stretching and relaxing the spine in short intervals. A typical session lasts between 20 to 45 minutes, and many patients find the experience relaxing.
To achieve lasting results, spinal decompression requires a course of therapy involving multiple sessions over several weeks. A common protocol involves 20 to 25 sessions, initially scheduled three to five times weekly, followed by a gradual taper. Patients are generally able to resume their normal daily activities immediately after each treatment.