If you suffer from lingering back pain you may have looked into the benefits of spinal decompression. You learned what it is and why spinal decompression makes an excellent alternative to surgery. However, there are still a few lingering questions bouncing around your brain. Here are the answers to a few spinal decompression frequently asked questions.

Do Spinal Decompression Treatments Hurt?

Spinal decompression therapy is non-invasive and should not cause pain. The table works by gently pulling apart the spine, creating a ‘vacuum effect’ within the disc to allow it to heal. Depending on the severity of the trauma to the spine some patients might experience mild discomfort during their initial sessions. Typically though, spinal decompression is found to be pain-free with most patients finding it relaxing and tension-relieving. 

Am I a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?

Every case is different. Meeting with a chiropractor will help determine if spinal decompression therapy is right for you. Ideal candidates for spinal decompression are those who suffer from:

• Neck or back pain

• Sciatica 

• Disc herniation

• Bulging discs 

• Degenerative disc disease

• Pinched nerves 

• Arm or leg pain

Those who have undergone spinal fusions, are pregnant, or have artificial discs are not good candidates for spinal decompression. However, your chiropractor can offer other alternative treatments for pain relief.  

How Quickly Does Spinal Decompression Work?

This again will vary by patient. Many patients feel pain relief after their first session, with the majority feeling vast improvements within a few weeks. A chiropractor will study each individual’s x-rays to determine the number of sessions that might be needed. Anywhere from 6 to 24 sessions may initially be recommended depending on the severity of the issue. After the initial round of treatments, patients will discuss any follow up protocol to help maintain normal disc positioning within the spine.