Spinal Decompression

For tight, stiff spines, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis, spinal decompression offers a noninvasive solution to pain and discomfort. Gregory Carter, DC, and the team at Carter Chiropractic offer spinal decompression using a specialized flexion-distraction table for personalized and gentle treatments. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, the practice is easily accessible and ready to help you. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking one online today.

What is spinal decompression?

Spinal decompression, sometimes called traction, is a noninvasive technique used to gently stretch the soft tissues surrounding the spine and relieve pressure on the vertebrae and joints of the spine.

Carter Chiropractic uses a technique called flexion-distraction to perform spinal decompression. Flexion-distraction utilizes a specialized treatment table that bends in half while you’re lying on it so the half where your legs are resting can be lowered towards the floor.

When is spinal decompression recommended?

Spinal decompression is recommended for any condition that causes tightness or stiffness in the soft tissues of the spine — including muscles, ligaments, and tendons — and conditions that increase pressure on your spinal joints and intervertebral discs. These conditions include:

• Whiplash
• Back sprains and strains
• Muscle spasms
• Herniated discs
• Bulging discs
• Sciatica
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis

Spinal decompression gently stretches tissues and takes pressure off sensitive joints, discs, and nerves to relieve pain and improve your mobility. 

How does spinal decompression work?

Spinal decompression works in two main ways. First, the biomechanical movement of the flexion-distraction table allows gravity to apply light traction to your legs during your treatment for a comfortable stretch in your back and spine.

Your chiropractor may also place their hand on different areas of your spine and back muscles to apply a downward force for an isolated stretch at specific spinal joints.

Flexion-distraction also increases hydration to your spine by increasing blood flow through stretching. This can speed up healing and reduce muscle soreness for greater comfort during and after treatment.

What can I expect when getting a spinal decompression?

Spinal decompression is a quick and painless procedure and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Your chiropractor helps you lie on your stomach on the flexion distraction table. Once you’re ready, they lower the bottom half of the table underneath your legs.

Then, your chiropractor lifts and lowers the bottom half of the table and your legs while applying gentle pressure on your spine. If appropriate, they may also move the lower half of the table from side to side.

You’ll likely feel a gentle stretch and light pressure on your spine during the procedure. Afterward, your chiropractor may recommend other treatments, like a chiropractic adjustment or therapeutic exercises, to enhance your treatment experience.

Find out if spinal decompression can help your condition by calling Carter Chiropractic or requesting a consultation online today.