Back pain is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. For many, the thought of back surgery seems daunting—costly, risky, and requiring long recovery times. Fortunately, spinal decompression therapy (SDT) offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical alternative. This gentle, traction-based treatment alleviates pressure on spinal structures, promotes healing, and restores mobility—all without incisions or anesthesia. At Broadview Health Center in Broadview Heights, Ohio, Dr. Frank Dachtler, DC, and his team specialize in this cutting-edge therapy, offering patients a better path to recovery.
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses a motorized traction table to gently stretch the spine, relieving pressure on discs and surrounding nerves. The controlled traction creates a low-pressure environment inside the spinal discs, allowing nutrients, oxygen, and fluid to flow in—promoting rehydration and healing . Patients typically lie strapped to the table, and sessions last 20–30 minutes. Over a series of visits, SDT works gradually yet noticeably to restore spinal health.
The therapy involves three key steps:
Traction Application
The process begins with the patient being gently positioned on a specialized decompression table. The table is designed to carefully stretch the spine, focusing on either the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) region, depending on the location of discomfort. This controlled stretching relieves built-up pressure on the spine and starts the decompression process in a gradual and precise manner.
Negative Pressure Generation
As the table stretches the spine, it creates a negative pressure within the intervertebral discs. This vacuum-like effect helps retract bulging or herniated disc material away from compressed nerves. By relieving this nerve pressure, patients often experience a significant reduction in pain, numbness, or tingling associated with nerve impingement.
Enhanced Nutrient Circulation
The negative pressure also promotes increased circulation of vital nutrients, oxygen, and hydration into the spinal discs. Since discs lack a direct blood supply, this influx of nutrients plays a crucial role in helping the body heal itself naturally by repairing damaged tissues and reducing inflammation.
Over time, this three-step process not only alleviates symptoms like pain and stiffness but also enhances overall spinal function and mobility. With consistent sessions, many patients achieve long-term relief and avoid the need for surgical intervention.
4.1 Drug-Free Pain Relief
Spinal decompression therapy eliminates the need for pain medications by addressing the root cause of discomfort rather than masking symptoms. This approach provides a safer alternative, free from the risk of drug dependency, side effects, or tolerance that can come with long-term pharmaceutical use.
4.2 Non-Invasive Procedure
As a non-surgical treatment, spinal decompression avoids the complications associated with invasive procedures. There are no incisions, no anesthesia, and no need for hospitalization. This makes the therapy appealing for patients seeking a low-risk solution with minimal downtime.
4.3 Promotes Natural Healing
By enhancing circulation to the spinal discs, spinal decompression supports the body’s natural repair mechanisms. Improved nutrient and oxygen flow helps rehydrate discs and repair damaged tissues, allowing for more sustainable recovery over time.
4.4 Long-Term Improvement
Clinical studies have shown that spinal decompression provides lasting relief. For example, one trial found that 86% of patients experienced significant improvement in chronic disc pain, demonstrating the therapy’s effectiveness beyond short-term symptom relief.
4.5 Improved Mobility
Patients who undergo spinal decompression often notice better spinal flexibility and less stiffness. This increased range of motion contributes to improved posture, easier movement, and enhanced quality of life.
4.6 Avoids Surgery
For individuals wary of going under the knife, spinal decompression presents a compelling alternative. It’s especially suitable for those seeking conservative treatment options before considering surgery, or for those deemed unfit for surgical procedures due to age or health conditions.
At Broadview Health Center, SDT forms a core part of their holistic treatment model, often in conjunction with chiropractic care, rehabilitation, and nutritional counseling . Here’s what sets them apart:
On-Site Diagnostic Imaging
At Broadview Health Center, the journey toward pain relief begins with precision. The facility is equipped with advanced on-site diagnostic imaging tools, such as X-rays and digital scans, to assess spinal alignment, disc health, and nerve compression. These imaging tools allow the medical team to pinpoint the root cause of pain and dysfunction, ensuring that spinal decompression is targeted and effective. Immediate access to imaging saves patients time and speeds up the treatment process without the need for external referrals.
Qualified Practitioners with Proven Expertise
Broadview Health Center is led by Dr. Dachtler, a seasoned chiropractor and decompression specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience. His deep understanding of spinal mechanics, combined with decades of hands-on work, positions him as a trusted expert in the field. Patients benefit from his extensive background in treating chronic disc conditions, herniations, and degenerative spinal issues. Under his guidance, the clinic consistently delivers high-quality care using the latest techniques and protocols in non-surgical spinal therapy.
Customized, Patient-Centered Care Plans
No two spines are the same, and Broadview understands this. Each patient receives a customized care plan that considers their unique medical history, diagnostic results, symptom severity, and treatment goals. Whether the individual suffers from sciatica, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, or general lower back pain, the care plan is crafted to maximize results. Adjustments are made along the way based on patient progress, ensuring a dynamic and responsive healing process.
Safe, Comfortable, and Non-Invasive Treatment
Safety and patient comfort are top priorities. The spinal decompression therapy offered at Broadview Health Center is gentle, non-invasive, and virtually pain-free. Unlike surgery, there is no need for anesthesia, incisions, or extended downtime. The decompression table is computer-controlled to ensure smooth traction movements that are both effective and comfortable. Patients often report feeling relaxed during sessions, with many even falling asleep during treatment. This makes it an ideal option for people who are sensitive to pain or hesitant about surgical procedures.
Integrated Supportive Therapies for Faster Recovery
Broadview takes a holistic approach to spinal healing by offering a range of complementary therapies that support and enhance the effects of spinal decompression. Chiropractic adjustments are often combined with decompression to realign the spine and relieve pressure on nerves. Soft tissue therapy helps to loosen tight muscles, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. Therapeutic exercises are also prescribed to strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and prevent future injury. Nutritional counseling may be included to support overall tissue healing and reduce inflammation from within. These integrative services create a comprehensive treatment plan that targets pain from every angle.
Ongoing Monitoring and Re-Evaluation
Treatment doesn’t stop after a few sessions. Broadview Health Center closely monitors each patient’s progress, tracking pain levels, mobility, and functionality over time. Periodic re-evaluations, including updated imaging when necessary, allow the team to fine-tune the treatment plan. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that patients receive optimal care and experience meaningful, lasting results.
A Caring, Patient-Focused Environment
Beyond clinical expertise, Broadview Health Center offers a warm and supportive environment. The staff is known for their compassionate approach, taking time to listen to concerns, answer questions, and educate patients about their condition and treatment. This emphasis on patient empowerment creates a strong partnership between practitioner and patient, fostering a sense of confidence and motivation throughout the healing journey.
Initial Evaluation
Your spinal decompression therapy journey at Broadview Health Center begins with a comprehensive initial evaluation. This includes a detailed physical examination, a review of your medical history, and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays. These steps help the practitioner understand the root cause of your back or neck pain, including any disc herniations, degeneration, or nerve compression, ensuring that the therapy is tailored specifically to your condition.
Customized Protocol
Based on your evaluation, a personalized treatment protocol is designed. Most patients are scheduled for 15 to 25 sessions, each lasting approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This protocol may be combined with chiropractic care, soft tissue therapy, or other supportive treatments for enhanced effectiveness. The frequency and number of sessions depend on factors such as the severity of your condition, overall health, and your response to treatment.
Session Experience
During each session, you’ll lie comfortably on a specially designed decompression table. The treatment gently stretches your spine, creating space between vertebrae and relieving pressure on compressed nerves. Most patients describe the experience as a mild pulling or stretching sensation and often find the sessions relaxing—some even fall asleep. The therapy is non-invasive and typically pain-free, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.
Home Care Support
To complement in-office treatments, patients are often given simple home care routines. These may include therapeutic exercises, gentle stretches, and postural guidance aimed at strengthening the spine and core muscles. These routines help prolong the benefits of spinal decompression, reduce inflammation, and promote long-term healing between visits. Following your home care instructions can significantly improve your outcome.
Progress Tracking
At Broadview Health Center, your progress is closely monitored throughout your treatment. Regular check-ins allow the care team to track improvements in pain levels, flexibility, and function. If necessary, your treatment plan may be adjusted based on these results to ensure optimal recovery. This data-driven approach ensures that you receive the right care at the right time, optimizing both short-term relief and long-term results.
SDT is considered very safe, but not suitable for:
Severe Osteoporosis
Individuals with advanced osteoporosis have weakened bones that may not tolerate the gentle stretching forces applied during spinal decompression. Applying traction to such compromised bone structures can increase the risk of fractures, making this therapy unsuitable for those with severe bone density loss.
Spinal Fractures
Patients with recent or unstable spinal fractures should avoid spinal decompression therapy. The stretching motion may interfere with the healing process or worsen the injury. Proper healing of fractures must be ensured before any form of spinal traction is considered.
Tumors or Infections
Spinal decompression therapy is contraindicated in patients with spinal tumors or infections. These conditions require specialized medical treatment, and applying mechanical force to affected areas could aggravate the condition or complicate the disease progression.
Advanced Arthritis or Spinal Instability
In cases of severe spinal arthritis or instability, spinal decompression may not be appropriate. The therapy could potentially place stress on already compromised joints and ligaments, increasing the risk of injury. Careful evaluation is essential before proceeding with treatment.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women are typically advised against spinal decompression therapy due to the physical changes in their bodies and potential stress on the abdomen. Alternative treatments that are safer for both mother and baby are usually recommended during pregnancy.
Thorough Patient Evaluation for Safety
At Broadview Health Center, safety is a top priority. Each patient undergoes a thorough intake process that includes a detailed health history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging when necessary. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that spinal decompression therapy is only offered to individuals who are medically appropriate candidates, minimizing any risk and maximizing treatment success.
Q1: How soon will I feel better?
Initial relief may occur within a few sessions. Full benefits typically emerge after 6–8 weeks of consistent treatment.
Q2: Is it painful?
Most patients describe the sessions as relaxing or mildly stretching. SDT is painless and non-invasive.
Q3: How many sessions are needed?
Typically 15–25 sessions over several weeks, combined with chiropractic therapy, yield optimal results.
Q4: Is SDT covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Broadview’s team can verify your benefits and provide pre-authorization when possible.
Q5: Can SDT completely replace surgery?
Many patients find substantial relief without surgery. However, cases with severe structural damage may still require surgical intervention.
Spinal decompression therapy offers a safe, effective, non-surgical alternative for individuals suffering from herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and other back conditions. By gently stretching the spine, SDT reduces nerve pressure, encourages natural disc healing, and restores function—all without the risks and downtime of surgery.
For individuals seeking pain relief, improved mobility, and long-term spine health, Broadview Health Center in Broadview Heights stands out. Their experienced team, on-site imaging, and fully personalized care make them an excellent choice for SDT. If you’re ready to explore a non-invasive path to healing, get in touch today.
Don’t let debilitating back pain limit your life. Discover the healing power of spinal decompression therapy at Broadview Health Center. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through a personalized, drug-free path to recovery.
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A: No, most patients find it relaxing. It’s a gentle, controlled process with no downtime.
A: It depends on your condition. Many patients begin to feel relief within a few sessions, while others may need ongoing maintenance.
A: In many cases, yes. While not all nerve damage is reversible, our therapies help stimulate regeneration and relieve symptoms.
A: Absolutely. All therapies offered at Broadview Health Center are non-invasive and drug-free, with a focus on your safety and comfort.
A: Coverage varies. Our office can verify your benefits and work with you on financing options if needed.
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