Non-Surgical Disc Care
Spinal Decompression Therapy Grand Rapids
FDA-cleared, non-surgical spinal decompression for herniated discs, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease. The Chiropractic Doctors offer advanced decompression therapy at our office on 28th Street SE in Grand Rapids.
New Patient Special
$47
Consultation, Exam & X-rays
Available for new patients only. We will confirm within 1 business hour.
The Science
How Does Spinal Decompression Work?
Spinal decompression uses a computerized table to gently stretch the spine in a precise, cyclical pattern. This creates negative pressure inside the damaged disc, which produces two effects. First, it draws bulging or herniated disc material back toward the center of the disc. Second, it pulls oxygen, water, and nutrients into the disc space to promote healing. Unlike traditional traction, which applies a constant force, decompression uses a programmed ramp-up and release cycle that prevents the surrounding muscles from tensing and resisting.
At The Chiropractic Doctors in Grand Rapids, we use FDA-cleared decompression equipment that lets Dr. Phinney program the exact angle, force, and duration for each patient. The table targets the specific disc level causing your symptoms, whether that is L4-L5, L5-S1, or a cervical disc. Each session lasts about 25 to 35 minutes, and you remain fully clothed on a comfortable, padded table throughout the treatment.
Conditions We Treat
Conditions Treated With Spinal Decompression
Herniated Discs
Decompression creates negative intradiscal pressure that pulls herniated material back toward the center of the disc, reducing pressure on the surrounding nerves.
Learn more →Sciatica
When a lumbar disc compresses the sciatic nerve, shooting pain radiates down the leg. Decompression targets the exact disc level to relieve that compression.
Learn more →Degenerative Disc Disease
Aging discs lose hydration and height. Decompression draws nutrients back into the disc to slow degeneration and reduce chronic pain.
Bulging Discs
A bulging disc pushes outward and can press on nearby nerves. The cyclical stretching of decompression helps retract the bulge without surgery.
Learn more →Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Decompression gently opens the space to relieve symptoms.
Chronic Low Back Pain
Patients who have tried physical therapy, medication, and injections without lasting relief often respond well to decompression therapy.
Learn more →Your Session
What Does a Decompression Session Look Like?
You will arrive at our office on 28th Street SE and lie face-up on the decompression table. A padded harness is fitted around your hips while your upper body rests comfortably on the table. Dr. Phinney programs the computer to target your specific disc level, then the table begins a slow, cyclical stretching motion. Each pull lasts about 60 seconds, followed by a brief rest period. The entire session takes 25 to 35 minutes.
Most patients describe the sensation as a gentle, rhythmic pull in their lower back. There is no sharp pain. Many patients relax so deeply that they doze off during the session. After the table finishes, you may receive a chiropractic adjustment, ice therapy, or electrical muscle stimulation depending on your care plan. You can return to normal daily activities immediately. Patients from Cascade, Kentwood, Ada, and the greater Grand Rapids area typically schedule sessions two to three times per week during their treatment window.
Treatment Timeline
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Most decompression protocols at The Chiropractic Doctors involve 20 to 30 sessions spread over six to eight weeks. You will typically visit our Grand Rapids office two to three times per week. Some patients feel noticeable improvement within the first four to six sessions, while more advanced disc conditions may take longer to respond.
Dr. Phinney re-evaluates your progress at regular intervals throughout the protocol. If your symptoms are improving, the plan continues. If adjustments to the treatment parameters are needed, he will modify the force, angle, or session frequency. After completing the active treatment phase, most patients transition to periodic maintenance visits to protect the gains they have made.
Is It Right for You?
Who Is a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?
Good candidates for spinal decompression include patients with herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, facet syndrome, and chronic back pain that has not responded to medication, physical therapy, or injections. If you have been told that surgery is your only option, decompression may offer a non-surgical alternative worth exploring.
Decompression is not appropriate for everyone. Patients who are pregnant, have spinal fractures, severe osteoporosis, spinal tumors, or metal hardware from a prior surgery may not qualify. Dr. Phinney conducts a thorough evaluation at your first visit, including a review of your imaging and medical history, before recommending treatment. Call (616) 432-3103 to schedule your consultation at our Grand Rapids office.
Common Questions
Spinal Decompression FAQ
Is spinal decompression painful?
No. Most patients describe the sensation as a gentle stretch. You lie face-up on the decompression table while the computerized system applies precise, cyclical traction. Many patients at our Grand Rapids office actually fall asleep during their session.
How many decompression sessions will I need?
A typical protocol involves 20 to 30 sessions over six to eight weeks, with two to three visits per week. Some patients notice improvement within the first few sessions, while more severe disc conditions may take longer. Dr. Phinney will outline your expected timeline at your first visit.
Does insurance cover spinal decompression therapy?
Some insurance plans cover spinal decompression, while others classify it as an elective therapy. We recommend calling our office at (616) 432-3103 so our team can verify your specific benefits. We also offer affordable self-pay options.
What is the difference between spinal decompression and traction?
Traditional traction applies a constant pulling force, which can cause muscles to tense and resist. Spinal decompression uses a computerized, cyclical pattern that slowly ramps up and releases. This prevents muscle guarding, allowing the disc to receive nutrients and retract more effectively.
Can I get spinal decompression after back surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery and how much time has passed. Patients with spinal fusion, metal implants, or hardware in the treatment area may not be candidates. Dr. Phinney evaluates each case individually. Bring your surgical records to your consultation so we can determine if decompression is safe for you.
What conditions does spinal decompression treat?
Spinal decompression is effective for herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, spinal stenosis, facet joint syndrome, and chronic lower back pain that has not responded to other treatments. Call (616) 432-3103 to find out if you are a candidate.
Explore Our Services
Related Services
Pain Management
Comprehensive, drug-free pain management combining adjustments, decompression, and laser therapy.
Learn more →Herniated Disc Treatment
Non-surgical treatment protocols for herniated and bulging discs in the cervical and lumbar spine.
Learn more →Sciatica Treatment
Targeted care for sciatic nerve pain using spinal decompression, adjustments, and rehabilitation.
Learn more →Find Out if Decompression Is Right for You
Disc pain does not have to mean surgery.
Three doctors, 35+ years of experience, and FDA-cleared decompression technology. Schedule your $47 consultation at The Chiropractic Doctors in Grand Rapids.
5747 28th Street Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49546