Peak Sports Chiropractic

Flexion-distraction is also known as “spinal-distraction”,  “non-surgical spinal decompression”, or “decompression traction” has become the most widely used non-surgical approach to treating spinal disc problems/disc bulges that cause low back pain and frequently, leg pain. Additionally, it allows for treatment when symptoms are too acute or too severe to allow traditional chiropractic adjustments. Surprisingly, there is no pain involved in this treatment. It is actually quite gentle and relaxing.

Flexion-distraction uses a specialized table that provides gentle stretching (“distraction”) of the individual spinal segments occurs, thus reducing pressure inside the disc. Flexion-distraction allows the physician to isolate the area of disc problem. The result is a “de-compression” of the discs and nerves.

Disc bulge compressing a spinal nerve.

When a disc bulges, ruptures, or herniates, the gelatinous material in the center of the disc (“nucleus pulposa”) leaks out under pressure, toward the spinal nerve roots. Theoretically, Flexion-distraction allows the disc nucleus to assume a more normal, central position again. This movement of the disc away from the nerve root can reduce nerve inflammation, eventually relieving the associated leg pain.

Additionally, because discs rely on a process called “imbibition” to absorb nutrients and fluid from surrounding tissues, Flexion-distraction may improve disc height when disc degeneration has occurred. The technique has a relaxing effect on the spine overall, and patients report feeling “looser” after treatment.

Healthy disc and nerve root.

Flexion-distraction is applied in combination with appropriate physiotherapies, in a series of treatments. Specific therapeutic exercises are used, consistent with patient progress. Important home care instructions and joint support supplements are a crucial part of disc treatments.