What it is
Spinal decompression is a form of motorized traction that gently stretches the spine to reduce pressure inside affected discs. The goal is to create negative pressure within the disc — which can help retract herniated material, improve nutrient flow into the disc, and reduce nerve root irritation.
What it's used for
- Disc bulge or herniation — lumbar or cervical
- Radiculopathy — radiating arm or leg pain from nerve root compression
- Degenerative disc disease — with mechanical pain features
- Facet syndrome with disc involvement — requiring decompressive component
- Failed conservative therapy — short of surgical evaluation
What a session looks like
You lie on a comfortable table — face up for lumbar work, face up or down for cervical work. A harness is positioned around your pelvis or neck depending on the area being treated. The table cycles through gentle pulling and releasing phases, lasting about 20–30 minutes per session.
Most patients find sessions relaxing. Many describe a noticeable reduction in pain after the first few sessions, though full benefit typically requires a course of treatment.
What the evidence says
Decompression therapy has reasonable supporting evidence for disc-related back and neck pain, particularly when combined with manual therapy and rehabilitation exercise. It is not appropriate for every spinal condition. Whether it's a fit for your case depends on the exam findings — we don't recommend it speculatively.
PIP coverage
Spinal Decompression is covered by your Texas PIP when medically necessary.
We bill your auto insurer directly. You pay $0 out of pocket.