Pain from a bulging or herniated disc can make everyday life feel impossible, whether it's sitting at your desk, picking up your kids, or getting a good night's sleep. At Chiropractic Partners of Raleigh, Dr. Matthew Schmid offers non-surgical spinal decompression for the neck and low back to help relieve pressure on the discs and nerves causing your pain.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a gentle, non-surgical treatment that uses controlled traction to create space between the vertebrae. By easing pressure on the discs and the nerves around them, decompression can help reduce pain and support your body's natural healing process.
We use the Back On Trac decompression system, which delivers automated, controlled movement through a series of programmed protocols. Treatment is designed to be comfortable and low-impact, with no jerking or sudden pulling.
Conditions We Treat with Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression is commonly used for neck and low back problems related to disc and nerve irritation, including:
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Bulging discs
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Herniated discs
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Degenerative disc disease
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Sciatica
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Pinched nerves (radiculopathy)
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Spinal stenosis
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Facet joint pain
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Chronic neck and low back pain
Not sure what's causing your pain? Schedule an exam and Dr. Schmid will help you find out whether decompression is a good fit.
Lumbar (Low Back) Decompression
Lumbar decompression targets the lower spine, where disc problems and nerve irritation are most common. It is often used for low back pain that doesn't improve with rest, as well as sciatica, which can cause pain, numbness, or tingling that travels into the buttock and leg.
Cervical (Neck) Decompression
Cervical decompression focuses on the discs and nerves of the neck. It is often used for neck pain and stiffness, headaches that begin in the neck, and pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your first visit starts with a consultation and exam so Dr. Schmid can pinpoint the source of your pain and confirm that spinal decompression is appropriate for you. Imaging or past records may be reviewed if you have them.
During each session, you are comfortably positioned on the Back On Trac system while it gently and automatically delivers your treatment protocol. Most patients find sessions relaxing, and there is no downtime afterward, so you can return to your normal routine.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Every patient is different. The number of sessions depends on your condition, how severe it is, and how long you've had it. After your exam, Dr. Schmid will recommend a personalized treatment plan and track your progress along the way. Decompression is often combined with other care, such as chiropractic adjustments and rehab exercises, to help you get lasting results.
Spinal Decompression FAQs
Is spinal decompression safe?
Spinal decompression is non-invasive and is generally well tolerated. Dr. Schmid will review your history and examine you first to make sure it's appropriate. It is not right for everyone, and certain conditions, such as recent fractures, tumors, infections, or severe osteoporosis, can rule it out.
Does it hurt?
No. Most patients describe the treatment as a gentle stretching sensation, and many find it relaxing. If anything feels uncomfortable, let us know and we'll adjust.
How is this different from an inversion table or basic traction?
Decompression is controlled and customized to your condition, while inversion tables and basic traction are one-size-fits-all. Dr. Schmid selects a protocol based on your exam and the area being treated.
Can it be combined with chiropractic care?
Yes. Decompression works well alongside chiropractic adjustments and other care, and Dr. Schmid will build it into your overall plan.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. Start with a new patient visit and we'll take it from there.
Ready to Find Relief?
You don't have to live with disc and nerve pain. Schedule your visit at Chiropractic Partners of Raleigh and find out if spinal decompression is right for you.
What Our Patients Are Saying
"A great place to go"
"I have been a patient of Dr Clements for a few months now, and I am very impressed by the quality of care and services. Dr Clements listens very well, and he takes the time needed to do a detailed exam before the adjustments. He is very knowledgeable about the body biomechanics.
He has helped me with my back and my hip flexors that have been bothering me. His staff is very nice and very efficient. A great place to go for self-care and healing! I highly recommend." - Alice Y.
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"Highly recommend!"
"In a few short visits, Dr. Clements has significantly reduced pain in my neck, back, and joints. His team is fun and professional, and I always look forward to my visits. Highly recommend!" - Alexandra P.
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"Truely one of a kind"
"After 4 back surgeries I started to develop new pain in my back and hips. I was recommended Dr. Clements from a friend and I am so glad I have found him.
Dr. Clements is very informative and thorough. He has significantly reduced my pain in my lower back and hips with decompression therapy and concentrated stretching. He is truly one-of-a-kind and I highly recommend him to anyone dealing with pain.
The staff are more than friendly and very informative. I without hesitation recommend Dr. Clements at Chiropractic Partners!" - Jonathan B.
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"Everything I needed"
"After a week or so of some serious neck pain I came into see Dr. Clements who rid me of my issues in just two visits. Between the laser therapy, adjustment, and at home exercises, it was everything I needed to feel as good as new again.
With my labor intensive career I know I’ll be coming back here for any future problems. Recommend to all my friends in the Raleigh area!" - Shannon R.
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