Spinal Decompression Therapy in Altus and Hobart, OK
Chiropractic spinal decompression at Reed Chiropractic Clinic is a non-surgical, traction-based therapy designed to relieve back pain, neck pain, and radiating leg pain caused by bulging, herniated, or degenerating discs. By gently stretching the spine on a specialized table, decompression creates negative pressure that reduces nerve compression and promotes the flow of nutrient-rich fluid to damaged discs.
How Spinal Decompression Works
Your spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc bulges, herniates, or wears down, it can press on nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that may travel into the arms or legs. Spinal decompression uses a motorized, computerized table to gently and precisely pull and relax the spine in cycles.
This controlled stretching creates a vacuum effect inside the disc. The negative pressure can help draw bulging or herniated disc material back toward its normal position, take pressure off irritated nerves, and allow water, oxygen, and nutrients to flow back into the disc to support healing.

Key Details About Decompression Therapy
Conditions Treated: Spinal decompression is effective for sciatica, herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome, and chronic, long-lasting back and neck pain.
How It Works: The treatment uses a motorized, computerized table to gently pull the spine, creating a vacuum effect that can help retract herniated disc material.
What It Feels Like: The procedure is designed to be comfortable and should not cause sharp pain. A mild pressure or stretching sensation is normal, and many patients find it relaxing.
Session Details: Sessions typically last 20 to 30 minutes, and a series of treatments is usually recommended for maximum benefit.
Benefits: Spinal decompression aims to reduce pain, increase mobility, and help patients avoid or recover from back surgery.
Are You a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression may be right for you if you have ongoing back or neck pain, pain that radiates into your arms or legs, or a diagnosed disc problem that has not improved with other conservative care. Before starting treatment, our chiropractors perform a thorough examination and may take digital X-rays to confirm that decompression is safe and appropriate for your condition.
A Complete, Non-Surgical Treatment Plan
For the best results, spinal decompression is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, e-stim, therapeutic ultrasound, and massage therapy. Decompression can also be helpful for disc injuries caused by car accidents.
To find out whether spinal decompression can help you, call our Altus office at (580) 482-2313 or our Hobart office at (580) 726-2900.
Spinal Decompression Frequently Asked Questions
What is spinal decompression therapy?
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical, traction-based therapy that gently stretches the spine on a computerized table to relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
What conditions does spinal decompression treat?
It is used for sciatica, herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome, and chronic back and neck pain.
Does spinal decompression hurt?
No. Treatment is designed to be comfortable and should not cause sharp pain. Most patients feel a gentle stretch or mild pressure, and many find it relaxing.
How long is each decompression session?
Sessions typically last 20 to 30 minutes.
How many decompression treatments will I need?
Most patients need a series of treatments for maximum benefit. Your chiropractor will recommend a plan based on your condition and progress.
Can spinal decompression help me avoid surgery?
For many patients with disc-related pain, spinal decompression can reduce pain and improve mobility, which may help them avoid or recover from back surgery.
Is spinal decompression different from regular traction?
Yes. Spinal decompression uses a computerized table that precisely controls the pulling force and cycles, which helps create negative pressure within the disc while minimizing muscle guarding.
