Treatment
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses motorized traction to gently stretch the spine and take pressure off the discs and nerves. No surgery and no medication — you lie on a table at our Saco, ME clinic while the equipment does the work.
How spinal decompression works
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses motorized traction to treat musculoskeletal regions. The process gently stretches the spine, releasing pressure near the spinal discs, nerves and surrounding tissue.
That guided stretch can promote better blood flow, bringing more nutrients, water and oxygen to the area. It is also meant to reposition the spine for healthier posture. With pressure off the discs, bulging or herniated discs may retract.
What we use decompression for
At Active Chiropractic we use non-surgical spinal decompression for problems including:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Neuropathy
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Worn spinal joints
- Injured or diseased spinal nerve roots
- A curved spine
What a session is like
Providers here are trained to talk you through the process, so ask about anything that is unclear.
On the table
You lie face down on the decompression table. The chiropractor operates the equipment throughout.
The stretch
The table applies motorized traction to gently stretch the spine, easing pressure near the discs, nerves and surrounding tissue.
Anything added to it
In some cases the chiropractor adds electrical stimulation, ultrasound imaging, or heat and cold therapy to the same session.
How long it takes
A spinal decompression session can last anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes.
Afterwards
Decompression is usually one part of a wider plan. Dr. Reiche will tell you how it fits with the rest of your care and when to come back.
Common questions
Does spinal decompression hurt?
It is a gentle, guided stretch rather than a forceful one. You lie face down on the table while the chiropractor operates the equipment, and you can tell them at any point how it feels.
How long does a session take?
Anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes, depending on what is being treated and whether other therapies are added to the session.
Is it surgery? Do I need medication?
Neither. This form of therapy is non-surgical, which means no medication and no operation is involved. For how it compares with surgical decompression, see our spinal decompression page.
How many sessions will I need?
Individuals may need a series of in-office treatments. How many depends on your condition, and Dr. Reiche will give you a recommendation after examining you.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Decompression sits alongside the rest of our therapies and techniques, and electrical stimulation, ultrasound or heat and cold therapy are sometimes used in the same session.
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