Spinal Decompression Therapy in San Jose
Non-surgical relief for herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and chronic back pain. Spinal decompression gently creates space in the spine to allow discs to heal naturally — without injections or surgery.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
A Gentle, Targeted Solution for Disc and Nerve Problems
Spinal decompression therapy uses a computer-controlled traction table to gently stretch the spine in precise, targeted intervals. This creates negative pressure inside the disc — which draws herniated or bulging disc material back toward its normal position and encourages nutrient-rich fluid to flow back into the disc.
Unlike traditional traction, modern spinal decompression is programmed to your exact measurements and condition. The table senses muscle resistance and adjusts in real time, so your muscles don’t guard against the stretch — allowing the disc to actually decompress.
Most patients find the sessions relaxing. There is no twisting, cracking, or discomfort involved.
How a Decompression Session Works
Setup & positioningYou lie comfortably on the table while a harness is gently fitted around your hips. The session typically lasts 20–30 minutes.
Controlled decompression cyclesThe table alternates between gentle distraction and relaxation phases. The computer adjusts the pull based on your body’s feedback throughout.
Disc rehydration & healingNegative pressure draws bulging disc material inward and pulls oxygen, water, and nutrients back into the disc — initiating a natural healing response.
Progress tracked with X-raysAt Vitality, we document your progress with follow-up X-rays as your care develops — so you can see the changes objectively, not just feel them.
Conditions We Treat
Is Spinal Decompression Right for You?
Decompression therapy is most effective for conditions caused by disc pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. If you’ve been told you have any of the following, you may be a strong candidate.
Herniated or Bulging Discs
When disc material pushes into the spinal canal and presses on nerves, decompression creates the negative pressure needed to draw it back in.
Sciatica
Shooting pain down the leg is often caused by disc pressure on the sciatic nerve. Decompression directly addresses the source of that compression.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As discs lose height and hydration over time, decompression encourages fluid to re-enter the disc and can slow or reverse the degenerative process.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the cord and nerve roots. Decompression creates space, reducing that pressure and its symptoms.
Facet Syndrome
Worn facet joints cause pain with movement and prolonged sitting. Decompression unloads the facets, allowing inflammation to reduce and mobility to return.
Failed Back Surgery
Patients who haven’t gotten lasting relief from back surgery often find that spinal decompression addresses the residual disc or nerve involvement that surgery missed.
Why Vitality Chiropractic
Decompression as Part of a Complete Care Plan
Spinal decompression works best when it’s combined with chiropractic adjustments to restore proper spinal alignment. At Vitality, Dr. Dave and Dr. Grace integrate both into a coordinated plan — so the disc heals and stays in a properly aligned spine.
Before & After X-Rays
We document your spinal structure before and after care — giving you objective, measurable evidence of your progress. Most offices don’t do this. We believe you deserve to see your own results.
Chiropractic + Decompression Together
Decompression alone rehydrates the disc. Chiropractic correction restores the spinal alignment that keeps the disc in place. We offer both under one roof, coordinated by doctors who specialize in spinal correction.
Brain-Based Care
Chronic pain changes how the brain processes signals. Dr. Grace’s brain-based approach addresses the neurological component of disc pain — which is why patients who’ve tried everything else often find results here.
Common Questions
Spinal Decompression FAQ
How many sessions will I need?
Most decompression protocols range from 12 to 20 sessions over 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of your condition and how your body responds. We’ll give you a clear care plan after your initial examination so you know what to expect before you commit.
Is it painful?
No. Most patients find spinal decompression sessions relaxing — some even fall asleep. The stretch is gentle and computer-controlled, and the table senses resistance so it never forces the spine beyond what’s comfortable. If you have acute pain, we may start with conservative chiropractic care first.
Does insurance cover spinal decompression?
Coverage varies by plan. We recommend calling your insurance provider before your visit. We’re happy to provide the procedure codes you need. We also offer payment plans so that cost is never a barrier to getting the care you need.
Can I have decompression if I’ve had back surgery?
In many cases, yes. Patients with prior discectomies or fusions often respond well to decompression. However, certain surgical hardware or recent procedures may be contraindications. We’ll review your surgical history and imaging at your consultation.
How is this different from regular traction?
Traditional traction applies a constant pull, which causes the muscles to guard and resist — limiting its effectiveness. Modern spinal decompression uses a computer-controlled logarithmic pull-and-release cycle that bypasses the muscle guarding reflex, allowing the disc to actually decompress.
