Spinal Decompression Information in Littleton CO

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive treatment option offered in Littleton CO, at the Alternative Physical Medicine Clinic. We have a room dedicated to our advanced decompression tables (for both low back and neck herniations). These tables provide a therapeutic treatment that works to relieve pressure on the nerve caused by disc problems such as bulging or herniated vertebral discs. 

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What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive treatment that aims to provide pain relief for individuals suffering from chronic back pain caused by issues such as bulging discs or pressure on the spinal discs.


During a session, the patient lies on our specialized spinal decompression table where their spine is gently and intermittently stretched, creating a vacuum effect that promotes relaxation and decompression of the spinal column. This process helps to relieve pressure on the nerves and allows for improved circulation to the affected area.


Most of our patients find spinal decompression therapy to be a comfortable and sought after relief option as it isn’t painful. Our experienced chiropractic doctors have vast experience with decompression treatments and tailor the therapy to your specific needs. 


Treatment plans may also include exercises and rehabilitation techniques to further support the healing process. If you are experiencing chronic back pain, consider scheduling an appointment to see if spinal decompression therapy is right for you.

What is the Decompression Treatment Like?

Spinal decompression treatment involves lying on our specialized table that is attached to the lower end of one of our therapy stations. One of our chiropractic doctors or medical providers will then gently slide the patient back and forth to provide traction as well as relaxation. 


This movement allows the spine to be intermittently stretched and relaxed, helping to alleviate any built-up tension or pressure. The lower end of the table can be adjusted to provide varying levels of traction, depending on the needs of the patient. 


This gentle back and forth motion can feel soothing and therapeutic, promoting a sense of release and relief in the affected areas. Many patients find that this type of treatment helps to improve their overall mobility and reduce discomfort in the spine.

What are the Causes of a Herniated Disc?

One of the more common pathologies that is commonly treated with spinal decompression is the disc herniation.  The herniated disc can cause significant pain and limit your mobility.  To understand how spinal decompression can help this condition, he are some of the most common causes of herniated discs:

Littleton spine doctor

Degenerated Discs

Over time, the discs in our spine can naturally wear down, especially in conjunction with any of the other following compromising factors. This degeneration makes the discs more vulnerable to tearing and herniation.

Improper Lifting Techniques

Lifting heavy objects without proper form puts excessive strain on your spine and discs. This is why you will always hear us telling our patients to 'lift with your legs, not your back'.

Excess Body Weight

Extra weight adds significant pressure to the spine, increasing the risk of disc problems. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for spinal health in order to prevent the added compressive stress.

Smoking

Nicotine accelerates disc degeneration, making them more prone to herniation. Quitting smoking is an important step for spine health.

Repetitive Motions

Jobs or activities that involve frequent twisting or bending can stress the spine, potentially leading to disc damage. The twisting WHILE bending is especially dangerous as it is a shearing force upon the disc itself.

Sudden Trauma

Accidents or falls can cause a sudden impact on the spine, sometimes leading to a herniated disc.

Littleton CO spinal decompression FAQs

What are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the rupture. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the herniated disc, typically in the lower back or along the nerve pathway that runs down the leg, but also is found in the cervical (neck) spine. With a low back herniation, you may experience pain around your hips or buttocks, as well as tingling or burning sensations. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the severity as well as the best course of treatment.



Many patients have found relief through spinal decompression, which gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure and promote healing. To learn more about how spinal decompression works and whether it may be right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Spinal decompression may also be used to treat other conditions, such as degenerative disc disease.

FAQs About Spinal Decompression Therapy

  • Is spinal decompression therapy safe?

    When performed by a specifically-trained healthcare professional, spinal decompression therapy is safe and non-invasive. It is important for individuals to undergo a thorough evaluation and assessment to determine the exact protocol that it is appropriate for their specific condition. Spinal decompression therapy is considered a safe and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica. 

  • What should I expect during a spinal decompression session in Littleton?

    During a session at our Littleton spinal decompression center, you will comfortably lie on a specialized decompression table. The table is designed to gently stretch and release your spine in a controlled, intermittent manner. This process helps to alleviate pressure on the spinal discs and nerves, promote healing, and provide relief from pain. Our trained professionals will ensure that the procedure is tailored to your specific needs to maximize the therapeutic benefits. 

  • How does decompression treatment work in Littleton Colorado?

    This mild, non-invasive method can alleviate lower back, neck, and sciatica pain. It is an advanced technique for treating bulging, herniated, or degenerative disc conditions in the cervical and lumbar areas.

    The Spinal Decompression's gentle distracting forces induce decompression of the spine through unloading caused by distraction and correct alignment, enhancing blood circulation and nutrient exchange to the affected region. You will undergo multiple cycles of stretching and relaxation, gradually reaching a final plateau after several minute

  • How long does a decompression treatment take?

    Therapy sessions are usually under 20 minutes, occurring three times a week for a month. They progress from passive to active treatments based on your response, with many patients experiencing pain relief after just 6-10 treatments. Most patients are discharged from treatment after 8 weeks.

    An extensive program focused on the function of stabilizing ligaments, tendons, and muscles is crucial for Spinal Decompression. Exercises and additional therapies like heat, muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and cold therapy aid in the rehabilitation of these structures. Our aim is to heal the disc and improve muscular control and support for the back and neck.

    Clinical outcomes of this procedure have shown effectiveness in over 75% of patients treated. Most patients find long-term relief or effective pain management upon completing the full Spinal Decompression treatment program.

FAQs About Spinal Decompression

  • IS SPINAL DECOMPRESSION THERAPY SAFE?

    When performed by a specifically-trained healthcare professional, spinal decompression therapy is safe and non-invasive. It is important for individuals to undergo a thorough evaluation and assessment to determine the exact protocol that it is appropriate for their specific condition. Spinal decompression therapy is considered a safe and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica. 

  • WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SESSION IN LITTLETON?

    During a session at our Littleton spinal decompression center, you will comfortably lie on a specialized decompression table. The table is designed to gently stretch and release your spine in a controlled, intermittent manner. This process helps to alleviate pressure on the spinal discs and nerves, promote healing, and provide relief from pain. Our trained professionals will ensure that the procedure is tailored to your specific needs to maximize the therapeutic benefits. 

  • HOW DOES DECOMPRESSION TREATMENT WORK IN LITTLETON COLORADO?

    This mild, non-invasive method can alleviate lower back, neck, and sciatica pain. It is an advanced technique for treating bulging, herniated, or degenerative disc conditions in the cervical and lumbar areas.


    The Spinal Decompression's gentle distracting forces induce decompression of the spine through unloading caused by distraction and correct alignment, enhancing blood circulation and nutrient exchange to the affected region. You will undergo multiple cycles of stretching and relaxation, gradually reaching a final plateau after several minute

  • HOW LONG DOES A DECOMPRESSION TREATMENT TAKE?

    Therapy sessions are usually under 20 minutes, occurring three times a week for a month. They progress from passive to active treatments based on your response, with many patients experiencing pain relief after just 6-10 treatments. Most patients are discharged from treatment after 8 weeks.


    An extensive program focused on the function of stabilizing ligaments, tendons, and muscles is crucial for Spinal Decompression. Exercises and additional therapies like heat, muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and cold therapy aid in the rehabilitation of these structures. Our aim is to heal the disc and improve muscular control and support for the back and neck.


    Clinical outcomes of this procedure have shown effectiveness in over 75% of patients treated. Most patients find long-term relief or effective pain management upon completing the full Spinal Decompression treatment program.



Don't Let your Joint or Back Pain to Stop You in Your Tracks...

Contact Alternative Physical Medicine today to learn more about how chiropractic adjustments may help eliminate your back, hip or neck pain.

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