Relief from disc pain, without surgery.

There are two forms of spinal decompression. The first uses surgical techniques such as microdiscectomy and laminectomy. These procedures are invasive and can even be dangerous, utilizing not only surgery but drugs and chemicals to fix problems with the body.

Nonsurgical spinal decompression practiced by chiropractors eschews invasive surgery and chemicals and focuses on manipulation and adjustment of the spine to stretch the patient's back on a specialized traction table. The process is safe, scientifically sound, and does not subject the patient to drugs and other dangerous surgical processes.

The end goal of decompression therapy is in line with all aspects of chiropractic: to alleviate pain, restore motion, and promote the body's natural healing functions. For patients with ailments like herniated discs, elongating the spine reduces the pressure that caused the disc to bulge, thus allowing it to move back into place. This reduced pressure can also create the opportunity for the body to infuse natural healing nutrients into the back that will help promote permanent healing.

Chiropractors are licensed doctors of chiropractic with extensive training in the science of chiropractic care. The services they provide, including spinal decompression, have a basis in science, and spinal decompression as a fundamental approach is widely recognized as valid within the medical community. The risks are minimal, far less than those of expensive invasive surgery, and the process promotes healing in a completely natural way.

Spinal decompression is most often used for herniated and bulging discs, sciatica, pinched nerves, degenerative disc disease, and certain types of neck and lower back pain. During your evaluation, Dr. Pell will confirm whether your specific condition is a good fit for decompression.

It should not hurt. Most patients describe it as a gentle, relaxing stretch. You lie comfortably on the table while it slowly and precisely lengthens the spine to take pressure off the discs and nerves. Many people find the sessions so comfortable that they relax completely.

A typical decompression session lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. We will let you know exactly what to expect for your plan, and most patients are able to return to their normal day right afterward.

It varies with your condition and how long it has been present. Some patients feel relief early on, while disc-related issues usually respond best to a series of sessions over several weeks. After your exam, Dr. Pell will lay out a clear, honest plan with no guesswork.

For appropriate candidates, decompression is very safe and non-invasive, with far fewer risks than surgery. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild, such as temporary muscle soreness as your body adjusts. Dr. Pell screens every patient first to make sure it is the right fit for you.

For many people, yes. Decompression is a conservative, non-surgical option that often relieves disc and nerve pain without the cost, risk, and downtime of an operation. It is a smart first step to try before considering anything more invasive.

Cost depends on your condition and care plan, which we go over clearly before treatment begins. To keep care affordable, we offer flexible financing through CareCredit and Cherry, so you can start now and pay over time. Just ask and we will help you find the option that fits your budget.