Spinal alignment
Spinal decompression for discs and nerves
A computer-controlled table gently and rhythmically lengthens the spine, taking pressure off irritated discs and the nerves beside them. It is one of the most useful non-surgical options for disc problems in the neck and low back.
How it works
Discs are the cushions between your vertebrae. When one bulges or herniates, it can press on a nerve root and send pain, numbness or tingling down an arm or leg. Sitting, lifting and even standing keep that disc under load all day.
Decompression unloads it. You lie comfortably on the table while a harness applies a slow pull that rises and relaxes in cycles. Because the force ramps gradually, the muscles along the spine don't brace against it the way they do with ordinary traction. The goal is to lower pressure on the disc and nerve, improve the exchange of fluid and nutrients in the disc, and give inflamed tissue room to calm down.
We pair decompression with adjustments, nerve-calming therapies and core and hip retraining. The table creates the window. The rest of the plan is what keeps the result once you're back to sitting and lifting.
Often used for
- lumbar and cervical disc herniations
- sciatica
- arm pain from a pinched nerve in the neck
- degenerative disc disease
- facet joint irritation
- spinal stenosis symptoms (case by case)
Read about related conditions
What a session is like
A session takes one 20-minute block. Most disc cases do best with a series of sessions over several weeks rather than one or two.
Is it right for you?
Decompression isn't right for everyone. We don't use it with recent spinal fractures, spinal fusion hardware, severe osteoporosis, pregnancy, tumors or infection, or when nerve symptoms are progressing quickly. Loss of bladder or bowel control, or weakness that is getting worse, is an emergency. Go to the ER first.
Questions
Does it hurt?
It shouldn't. Most people find it relaxing, and some fall asleep. You'll feel a gentle stretch. If anything increases your pain, we adjust the settings or stop.
Will I need an MRI first?
Not always. Many disc cases can be identified from history and exam. If you have significant weakness, symptoms in both legs, or you're not improving on schedule, imaging is the right next step and we'll help you get it.
Ready to feel better?
See every open time up to two months out, including same-day visits you can book from the parking lot.
Pairs well with
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An adjustment is a precise, controlled input to a joint that isn't moving the way it should.
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