Spinal Decompression in San Francisco CA

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical traction-based treatment designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, discs, and nerves. Using a specialized, computer controlled device, the spine is progressively released by a gentle force applied to the damaged region of your spine. This helps to remove pressure created by years of injuries, poor biomechanics, gravity, and the spinal degeneration that results. Because the spine is predominantly sealed within a sleeve of connective tissue, very little air escapes. Spinal decompression creates a vacuum effect inside the sealed spinal column helping the damaged disc material regain its natural position.

Spinal decompression is primarily used for conditions involving disc injuries and nerve compression, including herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, posterior facet syndrome, nerve pain, tingling and numbness, and spinal stenosis. It can be beneficial for both cervical (neck pain) and lumbar (low back pain) conditions.

Most treatment protocols involve 20 to 30 sessions, though this varies depending on the severity of your condition and how you respond to treatment. Think of it like a bottle of antibiotics – you have to take them every day until the bottle is finished, or the infection returns.

No. Most patients find spinal decompression to be comfortable, and many actually find it relaxing. In fact, people often fall asleep during the treatment. The traction force is applied gradually and can be adjusted for your comfort. That said, some patients with acute inflammation may notice mild discomfort during the first few sessions, which generally diminishes as treatment progresses.

Spinal decompression is a specialized treatment, and not every patient is a candidate. We carefully evaluate each individual to ensure the therapy is both safe and effective for their specific condition. Certain medical factors may be contraindications, which we identify through a thorough consultation and examination before accepting patients into care.

A chiropractic adjustment is a precise manual technique used to restore joint motion and alignment, while spinal decompression is a gentle, occilating force that focuses on relieving disc pressure and resolving pain. The two treatments address different aspects of spinal dysfunction.