What it is
Between each pair of vertebrae is a disc, a rubbery cushion with a firmer outer ring and a softer center. When a disc bulges, herniates or wears down, it can press on or irritate nearby nerves. That can cause pain in the back or neck, or pain, tingling and numbness that travels into a leg or arm (Cleveland Clinic).
During decompression, you lie on a padded table and are fitted with a harness. The table applies a gentle pulling force along the spine, holds it, then eases off, in repeated cycles. The idea is to create space between the vertebrae and reduce pressure on the disc and the nerves around it, which may ease pain for some people.
Research on motorized spinal decompression is still limited, and results have been mixed. Some people feel better, and some don't. Dr. Gordon Stapel, DC will talk with you honestly about what's realistic for your situation before you start.
How a session feels
- You stay clothed. You lie on your back or front, depending on the table and the area being treated. For low back treatment, a harness goes around your hips and lower chest. For neck pain, the doctor will explain how you'll be positioned.
- The pull is slow and gentle. You'll feel a gradual stretch, then a release. It shouldn't be painful. Tell the staff right away if anything feels wrong; the settings can be changed or the session stopped.
- It takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Many people read, listen to something or simply rest during the session.
- Afterward, some people notice mild soreness or muscle tightness, similar to after a new stretching routine. Let the doctor know about anything that concerns you.
A typical treatment plan
The clinic's typical plan is about 20 visits over 6 weeks. Visits are more frequent at first and then spaced out: typically daily for the first 2 weeks, three times a week for the next 2 weeks, then twice a week for the last 2 weeks. Your plan is set after the exam, based on your condition, history and how you respond, and it may be shorter, longer or different.
Each session lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. Ask at your consultation what else, if anything, your plan would include.
How many sessions will I need? · Does it hurt?
If you aren't improving as expected, the doctor should reassess and talk with you about next steps, which may include a referral to a medical doctor or specialist.
How decompression differs from surgery
| Spinal decompression (non-surgical) | Spine surgery | |
|---|---|---|
| What happens | A motorized table gently stretches the spine in cycles | A surgeon removes part of a disc or bone, or fuses vertebrae (Cleveland Clinic) |
| Anesthesia, incisions | None | Yes |
| Medication | None used in the treatment | Often used for anesthesia and recovery |
| Time commitment | Repeated short visits over several weeks | Procedure plus a recovery period |
| When it's appropriate | Certain disc-related pain without warning signs, after an exam | Emergencies, worsening weakness, or pain that doesn't improve with other treatment (Mayo Clinic) |
More detail: spinal decompression vs. surgery.
Decompression isn't a substitute for surgery when surgery is needed. Problems like losing bladder or bowel control or sudden leg weakness need emergency care. For people whose doctors haven't said surgery is urgent, decompression is one of several conservative options to consider, along with physical therapy, medication and injections.
How decompression differs from a chiropractic adjustment
- Adjustments (spinal manipulation) are quick, hands-on movements of a joint, sometimes with a "pop."
- Decompression is slow and motorized. There's no twisting or quick thrust; the table applies a steady, controlled stretch and release.
- Focus: decompression is aimed mainly at pain linked to the discs and the nerves around them.
Some people's plans include both; others have decompression only. You can tell the doctor your preferences at the consultation. Full comparison · Decompression vs. traction and inversion tables.
Is it safe?
Every treatment has some risk, and decompression isn't right for everyone. People who are pregnant, have metal hardware or a recent fusion in the spine, a recent fracture, severe osteoporosis, certain cancers, or an aortic aneurysm, among others, are generally not candidates. The consultation and exam are how the doctor screens for these. See who is and isn't a candidate.
At your visit you can ask about the safety stop on the table and what to do if you feel uncomfortable.
Questions? Call (801) 491-8688.
More questions about decompression
Is spinal decompression the same as traction?
Will I still be able to work during treatment?
Talk with Dr. Stapel about your pain
Call the office or request a free consultation. You'll talk through your symptoms and history, and you'll get an honest answer about whether spinal decompression is worth considering for you.
The consultation is free, with no obligation to start treatment. Have an MRI? Ask about the free MRI review.
Sources
This website is operated for Stapel Family Chiropractic (Springville Disc Center) in Springville, Utah. Care is provided by Dr. Gordon Stapel, DC, a licensed chiropractic physician. About this site.