Spinal Decompression Therapy
What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that gently stretches the spine using a computer-controlled traction system. The stretch creates negative pressure inside the disc, which helps draw herniated or bulging disc material back toward center and allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to flow back into the damaged area.
At Recover Pro, spinal decompression is delivered through the DRX9000—an FDA-cleared system that uses a servo motor and precision-controlled traction force to target specific lumbar vertebrae. Each session is monitored in real time, and built-in sensors automatically reduce force if your muscles begin to tighten or guard.
At Recover Pro, spinal decompression is prescribed and monitored by licensed providers who coordinate your plan across physical therapy, chiropractic, and pain management—so every part of your care works together from start to finish.
How Spinal Decompression Therapy Works
Spinal decompression gently stretches the spine using a computer-controlled traction system. The stretch creates negative pressure inside the disc, drawing herniated or bulging disc material back toward the center and allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to flow back into the damaged area.
Decompression is delivered through the DRX9000—an FDA-cleared system with precision-controlled traction force that targets specific lumbar vertebrae. Built-in sensors monitor muscle resistance in real time and reduce force automatically if your body begins to guard.
Spinal Decompression for Disc and Nerve Pain
Spinal decompression is a good fit for people dealing with disc-related back or neck pain who want to avoid surgery or reduce their dependence on medication. It works best for conditions where the root cause is mechanical pressure on a disc or nerve—not structural instability or fracture.
Less disc pain and faster healing
Spinal decompression reduces intradiscal pressure to retract disc material, supports disc rehydration, and addresses the mechanical source of pain rather than masking the symptom.
Relief from nerve pain, sciatica, and tingling
Decompression relieves pressure on pinched nerves to reduce sciatica, numbness, and tingling—with traction force targeted to the specific spinal segment causing the problem.
Better spinal health over the long term
Regular sessions support disc height and hydration over time, reducing pain from degenerative disc disease and facet joint syndrome while reinforcing long-term spinal durability.
Decompression as Part of Your Integrated Plan
Spinal decompression works best alongside related rehabilitation and wellness services, combined into a cohesive plan built around your diagnosis, pain level, and functional goals so each part of your care reinforces the next.
Spinal Decompression Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
Spinal decompression at Recover Pro is built around your diagnosis, imaging, and functional goals—not a generic protocol. The DRX9000 allows the team to adjust traction settings based on the specific spinal level and how your body responds across sessions.
This treatment should be avoided by people with spinal fractures, severe osteoporosis, spinal fusion hardware, active tumors or infection, or advanced instability. If you’ve had prior spinal surgery, your provider will review your history before recommending it.
Does spinal decompression therapy hurt?
Most patients find it comfortable and even relaxing. The traction is gradual, and the DRX9000 monitors muscle resistance in real time—automatically reducing force if your body tightens up. Some people experience mild soreness after early sessions as the muscles adapt, which typically resolves quickly.
How many sessions does it take?
Most protocols involve 20 sessions over 6–8 weeks, starting with more frequent visits (5x/week) and tapering as you progress. Some cases require fewer sessions; others may need more. Your provider will reassess regularly and adjust the schedule based on how you’re responding.
What conditions does spinal decompression treat?
Spinal decompression is most effective for herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, pinched nerves, and posterior facet syndrome in the lumbar and cervical spine.
Do I need imaging before starting?
Imaging isn’t always required to begin, but X-rays or MRI results help the team target the right spinal level and confirm the treatment is appropriate for your condition. If you have existing imaging, bring it to your first visit.
Is this the same as traction from a physical therapist?
Not exactly. While both use traction principles, the DRX9000 delivers computer-controlled, logarithmic force that targets a specific spinal segment with more precision than manual or basic mechanical traction. The real-time feedback also makes it safer for patients with muscle guarding.
