If you’re dealing with sharp sciatic pain, a stubborn disc herniation, or chronic low back pain, you may feel stuck between “live with it” and surgery. Non-surgical spinal decompression offers a third path—targeted, computer-controlled traction designed to gently unload the discs and nerves so your body can heal. At Spinous Chiropractic Center in Fort Worth, TX (formerly Express Chiropractic Fort Worth), we pair chiropractic care with modern decompression protocols to help you move, sleep, and work with less pain.
Below we listed a few benefits patients often experience—with research you can check for yourself.
1) Pressure Off Nerves = Less Sciatica
Decompression therapy applies a precise, intermittent traction to the spine that reduces intradiscal pressure and can retract or lessen the bulge pressing on nerve roots. When nerve irritation calms down, radiating pain, tingling, or numbness along the leg (sciatica) often eases. A comparative study found non-surgical spinal decompression (NSDT) outperformed conventional traction in reducing pain and improving function for lumbar disc herniation, suggesting a clinically relevant advantage for people with sciatic symptoms. PMC
2) Better Disc Hydration & Nutrient Exchange
Your intervertebral discs are living tissues that rely on fluid exchange for nutrition and repair. By cycling gentle stretch and relaxation, decompression promotes a pressure gradient that encourages fluid to move back into the disc. Over time, this can support disc height and resiliency. A 2024 narrative review of evolving spinal treatments describes decompression (including IDD-style protocols) as a non-operative strategy aimed at reducing disc pressure and improving biomechanics—one reason it’s become a go-to conservative option before injections or surgery. PMC
3) A Conservative Step Before Injections or Surgery
Because decompression is non-invasive and typically well-tolerated, it’s a sensible step in a “least-to-most invasive” plan of care. Contemporary reviews position decompression among conservative options that may reduce the need for more aggressive interventions when combined with active rehab, posture coaching, and lifestyle changes. For many people, that means more time living life and less time recovering from procedures. PMC
What a Typical Decompression Plan Looks Like
At Spinous Chiropractic Center Fort Worth, your plan starts with a focused exam and, when appropriate, a decompression trial customized to the involved level(s). Sessions are computer-controlled (to avoid muscle guarding) and paired with gentle chiropractic adjustments, mobility work, and home care to reinforce the gains. Many patients begin noticing changes within a few weeks, though timelines vary by case.
The Research—At a Glance
- Choi et al., 2022 (peer-reviewed, open-access): NSDT more effective than conventional traction in lowering pain and improving function for lumbar disc herniation/chronic low back pain. PMC
- Kang et al. (reported summary): Decompression plus exercise produced superior outcomes vs. traction plus exercise, with imaging evidence of reduced herniation in the decompression group. (RCT summary). medsciencegroup.us
- Gose et al., 1998, Neurological Research: Early outcomes study on vertebral axial decompression for herniated/degenerative discs reported substantial symptom relief, informing later protocols. PubMed
- 2024 Review of Evolving Spine Treatments: Describes decompression’s mechanism and role within conservative care pathways. PMC
Note: Evidence quality across decompression studies varies. Some trials are stronger than others, and results aren’t guaranteed. Your response depends on diagnosis, severity, and adherence to active rehab. Always consult with a qualified clinician.
Fort Worth: Ready to Try a Non-Surgical Option?
If you’re in Fort Worth, TX, Spinous Chiropractic Center (formerly Express Chiropractic Fort Worth) offers chiropractic care + spinal decompression designed around your goals—whether that’s fewer pain flares, better sleep, or getting back to work and workouts.
Next step: Book a brief consult to see if you’re a candidate for decompression and to map out a plan you can feel confident about.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes and isn’t a diagnosis or medical advice. If you have red-flag symptoms (progressive weakness, bowel/bladder changes, fever, trauma), seek urgent evaluation.