Spinal Decompression Therapy in Lynnwood
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine. It can help with back pain and sciatica that can turn simple things into a struggle. Spinal Decompression Therapy reduces pressure on discs and nerves so your body can start to heal. Decompression is often combined with chiropractic, soft-tissue work, or rehab for longer-lasting results.
At Alderwood Back and Neck Pain in Lynnwood, WA, Dr. Darcy Szigety, DC builds a custom decompression plan for your spine and your goals.
Sessions are non-invasive, medication-free, and designed for comfort. Many patients with herniated discs, sciatica, or chronic stiffness notice changes within the first few weeks.
Call (425) 775-6767 to schedule your complimentary consultation.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
- Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment for certain types of back and neck pain.
- You lie on a specialized decompression table.
- A harness gently supports your pelvis and/or upper body.
- The table applies a controlled, gentle pulling force to your spine.
- This creates slight “negative pressure” inside the discs.
- That pressure change can:
- Encourage bulging or herniated disc material to retract.
- Reduce pressure on irritated nerves.
- Improve fluid and nutrient exchange into the discs.
- The result for many people:
- Less pain.
- Less tingling or numbness.
- Better mobility and tolerance for daily activities.
Treatment settings are adjusted to your body size, your condition, and your comfort level.
Conditions That Benefit from Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression therapy is most commonly used for:
- Herniated or bulging discs: Helps draw disc material inward and reduces nerve pressure.
- Sciatica or radiating leg pain: Eases irritation along the sciatic nerve from lumbar disc or joint compression.
- Degenerative disc disease: Supports disc hydration and can lessen chronic disc-related pain.
- Spinal stenosis (mild to moderate): May create a bit more space and relieve pinched or crowded nerves.
- Chronic low back pain: Especially when imaging shows disc involvement or joint compression.
- Chronic neck pain with disc issues: Cervical decompression can reduce pressure on nerves in the neck.
Note: Not every patient is a candidate. Dr. Darcy Szigety, DC will screen you carefully first.
Key Benefits of Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression therapy aims to do more than just “take the edge off.”
- Non-surgical and medication-free: Designed as a conservative option before injections or surgery.
- Targets the root disc and nerve problem: Works on pressure and spacing, not just surface symptoms.
- Gentle and comfortable: Most patients describe sessions as relaxing, not painful.
- Improves movement and function: Less nerve irritation can mean easier sitting, standing, and walking.
- Can reduce recurrence of flare-ups: When paired with rehab and lifestyle changes, it may help prevent repeat episodes.
- Fits into a broader care plan: Often combined with chiropractic adjustments, laser, massage, or corrective exercise.
What to Expect During Spinal Decompression Treatment
A typical spinal decompression plan is structured and progressive.
- Initial evaluation
- Health history and symptom review.
- Physical exam and orthopedic tests.
- Imaging (X-ray or MRI) may be reviewed or requested if needed.
- Dr. {DoctorName} confirms whether decompression is appropriate and safe for you.
- Health history and symptom review.
- Treatment schedule
- Many plans involve 2–4 sessions per week at first.
- Total visits often range between 20–30 sessions, depending on severity.
- Each visit usually lasts 15–30 minutes on the decompression table.
- Many plans involve 2–4 sessions per week at first.
- During the session
- You are comfortably positioned and strapped into a harness.
- The table gently cycles between pull and rest phases.
- You should feel a slow, stretching sensation — not a sharp pain.
- You can stop the session at any time by telling the provider.
- You are comfortably positioned and strapped into a harness.
- Ongoing review
- Symptoms and functions are checked regularly.
- Settings may be adjusted as you improve.
- Symptoms and functions are checked regularly.
Home advice helps reinforce your gains between visits.
Techniques and Technology We Use for Spinal Decompression
At Alderwood Back and Neck Pain Clinic, spinal decompression therapy is delivered with a computer-controlled decompression table designed for precision and comfort.
- Programmable pull patterns: The table gently ramps tension up and down instead of yanking or jerking.
- Custom settings for each patient: Force, angle, and cycle timing are adjusted based on your spine and imaging.
- Smooth mechanical system: Built to deliver consistent, repeatable pulls session after session.
- Safety monitoring: Sensors track how your muscles respond and can reduce pull if they tighten.
This technology allows the doctor to target specific spinal levels and tailor each session to your needs, far beyond what simple traction or inversion devices can do.
Why Patients Choose Alderwood Back and Neck Pain Clinic for Spinal Decompression
Patients choose Alderwood Back and Neck Pain Clinic in Lynnwood, WA for decompression because:
- Doctor-led care: Your plan is overseen by Dr. Darcy Szigety, with training in spine and nerve-related conditions.
- Root-cause approach: We look at disc health, joint motion, posture, and everyday stressors — not just where it hurts.
- Customized plans: Decompression settings, visit frequency, and add-on therapies are tailored to your condition and goals.
- Integrated treatment options: We may combine decompression with chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and rehab exercises.
- Clear communication: You are walked through findings, options, and expected timelines in simple language.
Supportive, modern environment: A focus on comfort, safety, and long-term results, not quick, one-size-fits-all fixes.
Book An Appointment
Please use the booking tool below to book an appointment or by calling us on (425) 775-6767
FAQs - Spinal Decompression
How many spinal decompression sessions will I need?
Most plans range from about 20–30 sessions over 6–10 weeks, depending on the severity and how long the problem has been present. Some people feel changes within the first few weeks; deeper healing usually takes longer.
Is spinal decompression therapy safe?
For appropriate candidates, non-surgical decompression is considered a safe, low-risk option. You are screened first, and settings are customized to your size, condition, and comfort. It is non-invasive and medication-free, but not right for everyone (for example, some fractures or severe osteoporosis).
Will my insurance cover spinal decompression?
Coverage varies a lot by plan. Some policies help when decompression is part of a broader chiropractic or rehab program. Our front desk can help you check your benefits, but it is always best to verify directly with your insurer.
Are there any side effects?
Most people tolerate treatment well. Some feel mild soreness or fatigue after early sessions, similar to starting a new exercise routine. This usually eases as your body adapts. Any unusual or worsening symptoms should be reported right away.
How is spinal decompression different from regular chiropractic adjustments?
Adjustments focus on restoring joint motion and alignment with quick, specific movements. Spinal decompression uses slow, sustained stretching cycles to change disc pressure and nerve compression over time. Many patients benefit from a combination of both.
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