Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that helps relieve pressure on the spine, particularly in patients with chronic back or neck pain. The process involves gently stretching the spine using a motorised traction table or similar device. This therapy reduces disc pressure, promotes proper spinal alignment, and supports healing. If you’re planning to undergo spinal decompression, it’s essential to understand what typically happens during a session to ensure you’re well-prepared and can manage expectations.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
Your spinal decompression journey begins with a detailed consultation. The chiropractor or therapist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. In some cases, you may also undergo imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to determine the cause and location of spinal compression. This step confirms your eligibility for the treatment. It also customises the therapy for your condition.
Conditions like spinal fractures, osteoporosis, and some forms of cancer may disqualify a patient from receiving this therapy. The practitioner will clearly explain these considerations before starting the treatment plan. Once approved, you will receive a tailored therapy programme based on your specific diagnosis and response to previous treatments.
The Setup: What Happens Before the Treatment Begins
The practitioner will have you lying face-up or face-down on the spinal decompression table, depending on the machine and your condition. A harness is placed around your pelvis and another around your upper torso to secure your position on the table. These straps help apply the correct amount of traction without causing discomfort.
The practitioner will then input your treatment settings into the machine. These include the force of the pull, the duration of each cycle, and the total session time. Spinal decompression therapy usually lasts between 20 and 30 minutes per session. Throughout the process, you should feel a gentle stretching of the spine but not any sharp or sudden pain.
What You May Feel During the Session
As the table starts the traction process, you may feel your spine slowly elongating. This stretching creates negative pressure inside the spinal discs, which can help draw bulging or herniated disc material back into place. You might experience slight relief or a decrease in pressure as the session progresses.
It’s important to note that spinal decompression therapy is not painful. Most patients describe the sensation as a slow, steady pull or stretch. However, you should immediately inform your practitioner if you feel discomfort. A professional chiropractic clinic can make adjustments to reduce the tension or stop the session if needed. The table’s settings are highly customisable to accommodate different tolerance levels and medical needs.
Post-Treatment Steps and Monitoring
Once the session ends, the practitioner will unstrap and help you get up the table. You may be advised to stay seated for a few minutes before standing, especially if you’ve been lying down for an extended period. Some people feel immediate relief, while others may notice improvement after several sessions.
After your spinal decompression therapy, the chiropractor may recommend additional treatments such as physiotherapy, heat therapy, or specific exercises to support your recovery. The goal is to strengthen the surrounding muscles and prevent the recurrence of compression-related pain. Regular follow-ups are often scheduled to monitor progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Benefits Over Time and Treatment Frequency
After multiple sessions, patients can start to see results from spinal decompression therapy. A typical treatment plan may involve 15 to 30 sessions over several weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. Consistency is key to achieving optimal outcomes, especially for chronic disc herniation or sciatica.
As treatment continues, patients may experience reduced pain, dependence on medication, and better mobility. However, these results vary depending on the individual’s overall health and commitment to the rehabilitation process. Spinal decompression therapy works best when integrated into a broader pain management and recovery plan.
Conclusion
Spinal decompression therapy provides a structured, non-invasive way to relieve back or neck pain linked to spinal disc issues. Each session involves a controlled traction process that targets pressure points along the spine. While results may take time, many patients find the gradual improvements beneficial for long-term pain management.
Interested in spinal decompression therapy? Visit True Chiropractic to explore a non-surgical option for lasting relief.
