Lumbar Decompression Traction

Relieve Lower Back Pain Without Surgery

What Is Lumbar Decompression Traction?

Lumbar Decompression Traction is a non-surgical, computer-guided therapy that gently stretches the lower back to relieve pressure on spinal discs and nerve roots. At Johnson Medical Center, we use advanced decompression systems to help patients suffering from chronic back pain, sciatica, or disc injuries find relief—without medications or invasive procedures.

By reducing compression in the lumbar spine, this therapy helps to:

  • Increase space between vertebrae
  • Relieve pinched nerves
  • Rehydrate spinal discs
  • Promote healing and nutrient exchange¹

How It Works

Patients lie comfortably on a motorized table while a gentle, computer-controlled pulling force is applied to the lower back. This decompresses the lumbar spine, reducing pressure on discs and nerves, and may even help retract bulging disc material².

Each session lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients complete a treatment series over several weeks and begin to notice improved pain and mobility early in their care.

Conditions Treated with Lumbar Decompression

This treatment is ideal for patients experiencing:

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Sciatica (nerve pain down the legs)
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Facet joint dysfunction
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Post-surgical lower back pain
  • Chronic lower back tightness or stiffness

Lumbar decompression is especially effective for patients who want to avoid surgery or long-term use of pain medications.

Computerized Precision for Better Outcomes

At Johnson Medical Center, we use computerized lumbar traction tables that allow precise control over:

  • Traction force and pull angle
  • Cycle timing (hold and rest phases)
  • Progression based on patient comfort and response

This ensures every patient receives a customized experience based on their body’s needs.

Supported by Research

  • A study published in the Journal of Neurological Research showed that spinal decompression therapy significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with lumbar disc herniation³.
  • Evidence from a systematic review in Pain Physician supports decompression therapy for managing chronic low back pain, especially when conservative care has failed⁴.
  • A prospective study also found increased disc height and reduced pain scores following lumbar traction over several weeks⁵.

Integrated Care for Lasting Relief

As part of our whole-body approach at Johnson Medical Center, Lumbar Decompression Traction is used in combination with:

  • Chiropractic Manual Adjustments
  • Rehabilitative Exercise Therapy
  • Class 4 Laser for Deep Tissue Inflammation
  • Regenerative Medicine (PRP, stem cells, amniotic fluid)

Together, these therapies work to not only reduce pain but restore healthy movement and prevent recurrence.

What to Expect

  • Treatment is gentle and non-invasive
  • Most sessions are 20–30 minutes long
  • No downtime—patients return to normal activities immediately
  • Gradual improvements in comfort, mobility, and activity levels
🔗 Sources
  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430837/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4732438/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17549226/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19668202/
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20465929/