May 25, 2025
If you’ve ever experienced pain in your lower back, you may benefit from an adjustment with a spinal decompression table. In the hands of an experienced chiropractor, it’s the primary tool for non-surgical decompression therapy.
But what is spinal decompression therapy? What is a spinal decompression table? Why would I need it? Get the answers to these questions and more below!
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a type of adjustment that, when employed by a licensed chiropractor, is safe and effective for relieving pressure on the spine. Professional use of this treatment reduces irritation and inflammation while stimulating the healing process and increasing mobility.
This type of therapy uses lumbar traction, one of the most common types of chiropractic therapy. Your chiropractor uses mechanical force from a table, and potentially manual adjustments, to relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves.
How Does A Spinal Decompression Table Work?
Your chiropractor will lie you on the table, often secured with a harness. At the same time, a computer-controlled system will start applying precise distractions. These distractions create negative pressure on the affected spinal disks.
By creating negative pressure on the spine, we can help retract bulging or herniated discs to their proper position and relieve pressure and pain. Opening this space promotes nutrients to flow back into the spine and promotes healing.
Why Would I Use Decompression Therapy?
Decompression therapy is highly beneficial to patients needing gentle, precise adjustments on certain spine sections. We recommend spinal decompression therapy for anyone suffering from:
- Sciatica
- Herniated disks
- Worn spinal joints
- Injured spinal nerve roots
- Spinal stenosis
- Arthritis
- Other sources of back pain
However, some patients with back pain should avoid treatment to prevent complications. You should avoid spinal decompression therapy if you are/have:
- Pregnant
- Metastasized cancer
- Spinal fusion
- Broken vertebrae
- Artificial disks
- Osteoporosis
- Spinal tumors.
Consult your chiropractor to see if spinal decompression is right for you. Our experienced chiropractic office offers a variety of techniques to fit your needs.
Can’t I Just Use An Inversion Table?
You may think an inversion table is a more convenient option. In this table, you lock your feet into one end, and your chiropractor will rotate the table to raise your feet into the air. An inversion table can be helpful for decompressing your spine and healing your discs, as well as for injury recovery and minimizing your discomfort.
However, an inversion table is also not for everyone. It’s a more aggressive treatment option that can exacerbate conditions like degenerative disk disease. These tables can also raise blood pressure, meaning anyone with hypertension, heart disease, or a history of stroke should avoid inversion.
Both tables can provide great benefits, but to maximize your healing, consult our chiropractor to see which option best targets your needs!
Need Back Pain Relief? Contact Us!
When you’re suffering from back pain and need real, lasting relief, contact Family Life Chiropractic for the care you need. Call 727-447-4647 or contact us today to start your journey to a happy and healthy life!
About the Author: With over three decades of experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett is a highly educated and experienced chiropractor who serves Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. He takes a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care. Instead of treating symptoms, Dr. Jarrett looks for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment!