Decompression Therapy in Hershey
When discomfort starts in your back and travels down your leg, even ordinary parts of the day can become difficult. Walking, working, keeping up with family, or simply getting comfortable may not feel as easy as they once did.
For some people, disc-related concerns and pressure around the nerve roots may be part of what’s going on.
A Gentle Approach to Reducing Disc Pressure
Spinal decompression uses a specialized table that gently tractions and releases the spine in a slow, controlled motion. The goal is to take weight and pressure off affected discs and the surrounding nerve roots.
As the spine gently decompresses, a negative pressure or vacuum is created within the disc. This process is intended to encourage displaced disc material toward its normal position while promoting the exchange of nutrients between the discs and vertebrae.
It may sound technical, but the experience itself is quite simple: a gentle pull, a release, and time for your spine to respond.
When Might Spinal Decompression Be Considered?
No two disc concerns look exactly alike, so your doctor will consider your exam findings, symptoms, and how they’re affecting your everyday life before recommending decompression.
This therapy may be considered for concerns such as:
- Disc-related injuries or concerns
- Radiating discomfort that travels into the leg
- Pressure around spinal nerve roots
- Sciatica-type symptoms
As care progresses, we may also watch for something called centralization. For example, you may still notice discomfort in your low back, but it no longer travels as far down your leg. Changes like these give your doctor useful information about how you’re responding and what may come next in your care plan.
What to Expect During a Session
You’ll lie comfortably on the decompression table, with straps used to help keep you stable and properly positioned. Depending on your needs, there are different positions that may be used.
Once you’re settled, you’ll feel a light, gentle pulling and releasing sensation for about 15 minutes. Nothing about the process is meant to feel harsh or forceful.
Some people may notice a change after an early session, but spinal decompression is cumulative. Your doctor will continue evaluating how you’re responding as you move through your care plan rather than expecting everything to change after one visit.
After your session, we’ll encourage you to drink extra water and keep moving. We’ll also let you know what to expect next based on your individual plan.
Spinal decompression is one of the technologies that sets Hershey Family Chiropractic apart locally and gives our doctors another option when determining how best to care for each patient.
Wondering If Spinal Decompression May Be Right for You?
If disc-related or radiating discomfort is getting in the way of everyday life, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options. Contact us today to learn more about spinal decompression and whether it may have a place in your care plan.
