Does a chiropractic perform non-surgical spinal decompression?

Non-surgical spinal decompression, also called spinal decompression therapy or motorised traction, uses a controlled pulling force through a treatment table or similar equipment. The aim is to reduce pressure and discomfort around selected spinal structures while you remain supported. It is different from an operation because no incision is made. Suitability depends on the location and cause of your pain, your neurological symptoms, previous injuries, and other health conditions. The clinician should explain what the session feels like, how progress will be assessed, and when the plan should be changed.

Arrange an assessment rather than booking a machine session based only on a symptom label. Bring details about pain, numbness, weakness, prior scans, operations, medicines, and conditions affecting your bones or circulation. Ask whether another option, such as exercise-based rehabilitation or a different form of manual care, better matches the suspected cause. Stop and report worsening pain, new tingling, or unusual weakness during a session.

Seek urgent medical assessment for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the inner thighs or genitals, rapidly worsening weakness, or severe back pain after a significant injury. Fever with spinal pain, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer also deserves prompt medical review. These warning signs need medical evaluation before traction or other routine treatment.

Which spinal structure do you think is causing my symptoms? What findings make decompression suitable for me? How will you measure improvement, and what should make me stop? Would physiotherapy, imaging, or referral to another specialist be more appropriate?