Spinal Decompression
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical, traction-based treatment designed to gently stretch the spine and help reduce pressure on spinal discs, joints, and nearby nerves.
During treatment, the patient rests comfortably on a specialized decompression table. The table uses controlled cycles of gentle stretching and relaxation to create a decompressive effect in targeted areas of the spine. This may help relieve pressure associated with certain neck and back conditions.
How Can Spinal Decompression Help?
When a spinal disc is irritated, compressed, bulging, or herniated, it may place pressure on surrounding nerves and contribute to pain, stiffness, numbness, tingling, or radiating symptoms.
Spinal decompression therapy is designed to reduce pressure within the affected area of the spine. For some patients, this may help improve comfort, mobility, and function as part of a broader treatment plan.
What Conditions May Spinal Decompression Be Used For?
Spinal decompression therapy may be recommended for certain patients experiencing neck or back pain related to conditions such as:
- Herniated, protruding, or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc changes
- Sciatica
- Radiculopathy, sometimes referred to as a pinched nerve
- Spinal stenosis
- Disc-related neck or low back pain
Not every patient is a candidate, which is why a proper examination and review of your health history are important before beginning care.
What System Do We Use?
Southern States Spine and Muscle Rehabilitation Center uses the Triton DTS system by Chattanooga, a trusted manufacturer of physical medicine and rehabilitation equipment.
This system allows for controlled, computer-guided decompression therapy for both the neck and lower back. The technology helps the doctor customize the treatment based on the patient’s condition, comfort level, and treatment goals.
How Is Spinal Decompression Different From Regular Traction?
Traditional traction applies a steady pulling force to the spine. Spinal decompression therapy uses computer-guided cycles of gentle stretching and relaxation.
These controlled treatment patterns are designed to help reduce muscle guarding and allow for a more targeted decompressive effect than conventional traction.
Is Spinal Decompression Painful?
Most patients find spinal decompression therapy comfortable and relaxing. Some patients even rest during the session.
As with any treatment, comfort levels can vary. Your doctor will determine the appropriate settings and treatment plan based on your examination, condition, and response to care.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions depends on the patient’s condition, goals, and response to treatment. After your examination, the doctor will recommend a personalized care plan.
Many spinal decompression plans may include a series of visits over several weeks. Chiropractic care, therapeutic exercise, and other supportive therapies may also be recommended to help improve strength, mobility, and long-term results.
Is Spinal Decompression Combined With Other Treatments?
Yes. Many patients receive spinal decompression therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Depending on your needs, care may also include chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitative exercises, soft tissue therapy, and other supportive treatments. This combined approach is designed to address pain, mobility, muscle support, joint function, and overall spinal health.
Are There Patients Who Should Not Receive Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression therapy is not appropriate for everyone. It may not be recommended for patients who are pregnant or who have certain conditions such as severe osteoporosis, severe obesity, severe nerve damage, certain spinal surgeries with hardware, fractures, tumors, infections, or other serious spinal conditions.
The doctor will review your health history, symptoms, and any available imaging to determine whether spinal decompression therapy is appropriate for you.
How Do I Get Started?
The first step is to schedule an appointment to determine whether you may be a candidate for spinal decompression therapy.
Please bring any recent X-rays, MRIs, imaging reports, or related medical records so the doctor can review them and discuss your treatment options.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (803) 283-8442.
Location
Main Office: 106-A Woodland Drive, Lancaster SC 29720
Regular Office Hours
Our Normal Weekly Schedule:
*CLOSED DAILY FROM 1:00pm-2:00pm FOR LUNCH*
