Spinal Decompression (Traction)

Spinal decompression, also called traction therapy, uses controlled, intermittent force to gently unload pressure on spinal discs and joints. This non-surgical method helps relieve pain caused by disc compression or joint irritation. Clear parameters and stop rules ensure results are tracked closely for measurable improvement. To explore other conservative therapies, visit our Non-Surgical Treatments page.

Patients with disc-loading symptoms that improve when bending forward or reducing spinal pressure often benefit. It’s ideal for conditions like herniated discs or nerve irritation that respond to unloading. If symptoms worsen or neurological deficits progress, other options such as an Epidural Steroid Injection or surgical evaluation like lumbar laminectomy may be considered.

This treatment follows structured traction cycles with careful spinal positioning to relieve pressure on discs and nerves. It’s often combined with flexion and extension drills, pacing exercises, and neural glides for better outcomes. The approach focuses on restoring movement safely while reducing pain. Learn more about complementary rehabilitation under Physical Therapy.

You’ll begin with a short trial session to measure response. Each treatment involves gentle traction cycles guided by a set protocol to ensure safety and comfort. If walking tolerance, pain centralization, or sitting endurance improve, therapy continues. If not, your plan pivots quickly to other evidence-based options like Injections & Ablations.

Progress is measured using clear, objective criteria. Improvement in walking distance, reduced radiating leg pain, or better sitting tolerance indicates success. If symptoms don’t improve after a defined trial, traction is discontinued to avoid unnecessary cost or delay. In such cases, treatment shifts toward Physical Therapy & Rehab or other targeted options.

Spinal decompression is one part of a structured, non-surgical-first care plan. It aims to relieve disc and joint pressure while identifying which patients respond best to traction. If the therapy helps, it’s continued with progressive exercises; if not, care advances to the next evidence-based step. Learn about additional spine solutions on our Team page.