
Spinal Decompression Therapy: What You Need to Know Before Trying It

Spinal Decompression Therapy: What You Need to Know Before Trying It
Chronic back pain or neck pain can take a serious toll on your life. It can keep you from sleeping, sitting comfortably at work, or enjoying time with your family. If you've tried pain medications, physical therapy, or even traditional chiropractic care and still find yourself struggling, spinal decompression therapy might be the missing piece.
At Elite Family Chiropractic, we use advanced spinal decompression to help patients manage pain related to herniated discs, pinched nerves, and degenerative disc disease—without surgery or drugs. If you're looking for a clear, honest explanation of what decompression therapy is and whether it's right for you this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that gently stretches the spine using a specialized traction table. This controlled movement creates negative pressure between the vertebrae, which can:
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Relieve pressure on compressed nerves
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Help retract herniated or bulging discs
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Improve fluid exchange and nutrient delivery to injured discs
At Elite Family Chiropractic, we use the Back on Trac decompression system —a state-of-the-art machine that goes far beyond traditional spinal traction.
What Makes Our Decompression Therapy Different?
Our Back on Trac system isn’t just advanced—it’s patient-focused and FDA 510(K) cleared. Unlike older models that require patients to be strapped in with restrictive restraints, Back on Trac is open, comfortable, and accessible.
Key benefits of our system include:
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Heat + Vibration Therapy: These features help muscles relax during treatment, improving comfort and therapeutic effect.
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Axial and Bilateral Distraction: It stretches the spine both lengthwise and side-to-side for a more complete decompression.
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Lateral Flexion Movement: Back on Trac can gently sweep the spine left and right, helping to restore proper spinal motion and relieve pressure off irritated nerves.
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No Confining Straps or Belts: This means a more natural experience without feeling “locked in” or confined—especially beneficial for those with anxiety or mobility issues.
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FDA Cleared: The Back on Trac system is FDA 510(K) Cleared for safety and effectiveness.
This advanced technology makes spinal decompression not just more effective, but also significantly more comfortable and approachable for patients.
Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Right For You?
Spinal decompression therapy can be helpful for a wide range of spine-related issues, including:
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Herniated or bulging discs
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Sciatica
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Degenerative disc disease
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Pinched or compressed nerves
We start with a full diagnostic evaluation to determine whether your conditon would respond to treatment. In some cases decompression is paired with chiropractic care, rehab, laser therapy or referrals for imaging or co-management with a specialist.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Most patients describe spinal decompression therapy as gentle, relaxing, and pain-free. With our Back on Trac system, the added heat and vibration make the experience even more comfortable—some patients compare it to a massage or spa treatment.
You’ll lay back while the system applies smooth, controlled stretching and light movement. There are no straps or restraints, and the table gently supports your spine throughout the process. Each session lasts about 12 to 15 minutes, making it easy to fit into your day.
Many patients walk out feeling looser, lighter, and with reduced discomfort after just one visit.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
That depends on your condition and how your body responds. Some patients notice improvement within just a few sessions—especially for minor disc issues or early-stage nerve irritation.
For others, particularly those with chronic back pain, herniated disc, or degenerative disc disease, a more complete care plan may involve multiple sessions over 4 to 6 weeks.
At Elite Family Chiropractic every treatment plan is personalized. We monitor your progress closely and adjust your care based on results—not a one-size-fits-all schedule.
Benefits and Risks of Decompession Therapy
Benefits of spinal decompression therapy include:
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Drug-free and non-invasive
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Helps reduce disc pressure and nerve irritation
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Improves spinal joint motion and mobility
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Promotes natural healing of disc tissue
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Comfortable, relaxing treatment experience
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No downtime—walk in, walk out
Risks are minimal when properly screened and supervised. It’s not appropriate for individuals with recent spinal surgery, instability, or certain bone conditions—but that’s why we begin with a thorough exam before starting care.
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