Service Guide — Decompression Therapy
Gentle, controlled traction for the discs that need relief.
Spinal decompression relieves back or neck pain by reducing pressure on the spinal discs and the nerves they may be contacting — often a primary tool for disc-related cases.
01 — The Basics
What decompression therapy actually does
Decompression therapy uses gentle, controlled traction to create negative pressure within a disc, which can help pull bulging or herniated material back inward and take pressure off a nearby nerve.
How does it work?
You’re comfortably secured on a specialized table that applies a slow, controlled stretch and release cycle, typically over 15 to 20 minutes.
What’s it used for?
Bulging or herniated discs, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease are the most common reasons patients use decompression with us.
02 — Your Visit
What a session looks like
Decompression is distinct from a chiropractic adjustment, and often a primary tool for disc-related pain specifically.
Positioning
You’re comfortably secured on a specialized table, either face-up or face-down depending on the area being treated.
Controlled traction cycles
The table applies a slow, controlled stretch and release cycle over the course of the session.
What it feels like
Most patients describe a gentle stretching sensation rather than any discomfort, and many feel noticeably looser afterward.
How many sessions does it usually take?
Many patients complete a series of visits over several weeks, since decompression tends to work cumulatively rather than in a single session.
03 — Where It Helps
Conditions decompression is commonly used for
A contained disc bulge and a herniation pressing on a nerve are treated differently, even though decompression can be a useful tool for both.
Degenerative disc disease
Reducing load on discs affected by wear over time.
Chronic low back pain
Used when disc pressure is a driver of ongoing symptoms resulting in lower back pain.
Chronic neck pain
Applied to the cervical spine for disc-related neck symptoms.
04 — Safety
Is decompression safe for me?
Decompression is a non-surgical, low-force approach appropriate for many disc-related cases, but it isn’t right for everyone.
Check with your doctor first if you have
- A spinal fracture or recent spinal surgery
- Severe or advanced osteoporosis
- An abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Are pregnant
We may recommend a different approach if you have
- Advanced spinal instability identified on imaging
- Surgically implanted spinal hardware in the treatment area
- Certain advanced disc conditions best evaluated by a specialist first
A visit with us is appropriate if
- A bulging or herniated disc without the concerns above
- Sciatica or radiating leg pain
- Chronic neck or back pain linked to a disc finding
05 — Questions We Hear Often
From patients, before their first visit
Is decompression the same as an adjustment?
No — decompression is a gentle traction technique targeting the disc itself, while an adjustment restores motion at a spinal joint. They’re often used together.
How many sessions does it usually take?
Many patients complete a series of visits over several weeks, since decompression tends to work cumulatively rather than in a single session.
Will I feel relief right away?
Some patients notice improvement quickly, but for most, meaningful change builds over the course of a treatment series.
Does decompression hurt?
No — most patients describe it as a gentle stretching sensation, not pain. Sessions are stopped or adjusted if anything feels wrong.
Can decompression help me avoid surgery?
For many disc-related cases, yes — it’s one of the conservative options we try before surgery becomes part of the conversation.
Is decompression covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan — our team can help you check your specific benefits before you begin.
Ready to take pressure off the disc? Request an appointment or call (218) 829-2665.
Ready When You Are
Ready To Feel Better
Our team is here to help you move better, feel better, and live healthier
Curious whether acupuncture fits your plan? Request an appointment or call (218) 829-2665.
Ready When You Are
Ready To Feel Better
Our team is here to help you move better, feel better, and live healthier