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Spinal Decompression Therapy

Total Body Chiropractic in Bend proudly offers spinal decompression therapy as a non-surgical, non-invasive alternative to spinal surgery. This treatment option provides relief for pinched nerves, sciatica, and other disc-related disorders, such as herniated or bulging discs and degenerative disc disease. Whether you experience mild to moderate discomfort or chronic, debilitating pain, spinal decompression treatment in Bend may be your solution for long-term relief.

We use the Chattanooga Triton 6M Traction Table for highly individualized results that suit every patient’s needs. This spinal decompression table maximizes your comfort while lying in all positions.

Close up view of a massage therapist's hands working the lower back of a massage patient.

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a motorized traction therapy that changes the force and position of the spine. Through cycles of gentle stretching and relaxation, spinal decompression removes pressure off the nerves and within the spinal disc space for natural pain management. Patients typically seek this treatment to relieve arm, leg, neck pain from herniated and slipped discs, and lower back pain resulting from spinal issues. It is an effective alternative to surgery for herniated discs and in 4 to 6 weeks, many patients experience substantial pain relief.

Spinal decompression therapy in Bend is beneficial for injured or diseased spinal nerve roots and worn spinal joints. It also presents an excellent treatment option for those with:

  • Chronic neck and back pain
  • Bulging or herniated discs
  • Degenerative discs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Sciatica and leg pain
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Radiating nerve pain
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms and legs
  • Post surgical pain

There are minimal side effects to treatment, including a dull soreness for the first couple of weeks as the spine becomes used to stretching and decompression. Overall, this therapy is considered safe and comfortable, considering the patients experience above all else.

A woman with lower back pain grimaces while sitting on a sofa holding her lower back.

How does spinal decompression work?

  1. Evaluation: On your first visit, our Bend chiropractors review your medical history and any imaging (X-rays, MRIs) to build an individualized plan.
  2. Positioning: You're secured to the Chattanooga Triton table with a harness around your lower back. The table adjusts to your lumbar curve and any asymmetry.
  3. Decompression Cycles: The computer-controlled table alternates between gentle traction and relaxation. This prevents muscle guarding and gradually creates negative pressure inside the disc.
  4. Vacuum Effect: The negative pressure draws herniated or bulging disc material back toward the center, reducing pressure on irritated nerves and improving blood and nutrient flow to the area.
  5. Ongoing Plan: After your sessions, you'll receive personalized stretches and lifestyle guidance. Many patients combine decompression with chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy for faster, longer-lasting results.

What are the benefits of spinal decompression in Bend?

Spinal decompression therapy is a drug-free, long-term solution for common back problems. As you get older, the discs that cushion your vertebrae begin to lose fluid. This effect causes the spine to compress naturally. Spinal decompression therapy works to reverse that effect and promote healing. Additionally, decompression gradually relaxes the back and pulls on the spineover a longer period of time, preventing muscle guarding and muscle spasms. It is the perfect therapy for treating chronic back pain.

This therapy can also offer several benefits for our patients:

  • Decreases risk of disc degeneration
  • Reduces pressure on nerves and discs
  • Relieves nerve root compression
  • Relaxes muscles
  • Improves blood flow
  • Soothes lower back and neck pain
  • Eases radiating pain
  • Increases range of motion
  • Can provide relief for patients with failed back surgeries

How long does treatment last?

Session length

Each spinal decompression session lasts about 30 minutes.

First visit

Your initial appointment may take longer so we can review your medical history, imaging, and symptoms. Please bring any relevant records.

Treatment plan

You’ll receive a personalized plan that may include in-office care, at-home stretches, and lifestyle recommendations. Most patients:

  • Visit several times per week at first
  • Start with 5–15 sessions
  • Complete care in about 8 weeks
  • Notice some relief within the first few visits

Spinal decompression is estimated to be 70–90% effective for appropriate candidates.

Additional therapies

We may combine treatments like chiropractic adjustments or massage therapy for better, longer-lasting results.

Spinal Decompression Therapy FAQs

Spinal decompression is commonly used to relieve back and neck pain caused by conditions such as herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and pinched nerves. It works by gently stretching the spine to reduce pressure on discs and nerves, which can help improve mobility and reduce pain over time.
A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, manual thrust applied to a specific spinal joint to restore alignment and mobility. Spinal decompression is a longer, motorized traction treatment that slowly and repeatedly stretches the spine to create negative pressure inside damaged discs. The two therapies address different problems and are often used together. Our Bend chiropractors will recommend the right combination for your condition.
Most patients find spinal decompression comfortable and even relaxing during the session. Some people experience mild, dull soreness in the first one or two weeks as the spine adapts to the stretching, similar to how muscles feel after starting a new exercise. The treatment is computer-controlled and can be adjusted at any time. If you feel significant discomfort during a session, let our chiropractors know immediately so your treatment parameters can be fine-tuned.
Many patients notice meaningful relief within their first few sessions. Because disc injuries vary in severity, timelines differ. Some patients feel significant improvement after 5 to 8 treatments, while others with more advanced degeneration may take longer. The full treatment cycle of approximately 8 weeks is designed to achieve lasting, structural improvement rather than just temporary pain relief.
Yes, combining therapies often produces better, longer-lasting results. Our Bend chiropractors frequently pair spinal decompression with chiropractic adjustments, laser therapy and massage therapy, depending on your individual needs. Shockwave therapy may also be recommended if soft tissue damage is contributing to your pain. At your first visit, we’ll evaluate your full picture and build a coordinated treatment plan tailored to your goals.

Ready to Feel Better in Bend?

Schedule a consultation with one of our Bend chiropractors today.