Spinal Decompression

Consider decompression therapy If you have back or neck pain that affects your mobility or quality of life. At Complete Healthcare in Charlotte, North Carolina, experienced chiropractor Christopher L. Beller, DC, and the team regularly use decompression therapy to treat musculoskeletal pain and provide lasting relief. Call Complete Healthcare today to see if you can benefit from decompression or make your appointment online.

What is spinal decompression therapy?

Spinal decompression is an outpatient procedure that uses a special table or another motorized device to gently stretch your spine. Stretching your spine takes the pressure off your vertebrae and intervertebral discs while also increasing blood flow to the area.

What types of issues can benefit from decompression therapy?

At Complete Healthcare, the team uses decompression therapy to treat various musculoskeletal issues, including:

• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Sciatica
• Whiplash
• Headaches
• Sports injuries

Decompression therapy can provide relief for personal injuries like slip and fall accidents.

Am I a candidate for spinal decompression therapy?

Your Complete Healthcare provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. They gently press on your spine to identify sensitive areas, check your skin for redness or bruising and test your strength, reflexes, and range of motion.

Your provider orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or MRIs, to check for herniated discs or bone spurs. If your scans confirm an issue that can benefit from decompression, your provider moves forward with treatment.

What does spinal decompression involve?

Spinal decompression takes 45-60 minutes.

At the beginning of treatment, your provider fits you with two harnesses –– one goes around your waist, and the other goes around your torso. You then lie face down or face up on a computer-controlled table. 

Your Complete Healthcare provider stands at an electronic console that controls the table’s movements. Your provider develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. The table slowly stretches your spine, allowing your intervertebral discs to return to their original position. Stretching also increases circulation to the area, bringing vital nutrients to your spine.

After decompression therapy, you can return to work and other activities immediately. There’s no downtime or recovery period. 

How many spinal decompression treatments will I need?

The number of spinal decompression treatments you need depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying issue. Some people notice a significant improvement in their symptoms after just one treatment session. Still, the team at Complete Healthcare usually recommends a series of sessions spaced a week or two apart.

Is spinal decompression therapy safe?

Spinal decompression therapy is safe and usually well-tolerated. You may experience mild soreness or stiffness during the first 24 hours, but any discomfort should subside quickly. Contact your provider immediately if your symptoms continue or interfere with your daily routine.

Call Complete Healthcare today to learn more about spinal decompression, or make your appointment online.