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Spinal Decompression

Spine modelAt Century Park Pain and Health Clinic, we’ve been providing spinal decompression therapy to Edmonton and surrounding areas since 2007. In that time, we’ve performed over 25,000 treatments—helping people with herniated discs, pinched nerves, sciatica, and other disc-related problems return to a more active, pain-free life.

We were the first clinic in the Edmonton area to have more than one decompression table, making it easier for patients to fit treatment into their schedules. Our goal is not just to help you feel better, but to give you the tools and rehabilitation needed to stay that way.

What is Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression is a computer-guided therapy that gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure in the discs. This vacuum-like effect can:

  • Help pull bulging or herniated disc material back into place
  • Reduce pressure on compressed nerves
  • Improve nutrient exchange to speed up healing
  • Rehydrate the disc to improve its overall health
Computer technology controls variations in the spine’s unloading, effectively avoiding the body’s muscle contraction response. This allows the intradiscal pressure to actually be lowered to the point of creating a vacuum with negative pressure—making the treatment more comfortable and effective.

Conditions It May Help Address

We’ve seen positive results in many patients with:

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Facet syndrome
  • Sciatica and nerve-related leg pain
  • Chronic neck or back pain

Not every case is suitable for spinal decompression, so we always start with a thorough evaluation. If we feel you’re not a candidate, we’ll discuss alternative options or refer you to the appropriate provider.

What to Expect During Treatment

Sessions typically last 15-25 minutes. Patients lie comfortably on the decompression table—either face-up, face-down, or in a semi-seated neck position, depending on the area being treated.

A padded belt or neck harness is used for gentle, targeted pulling cycles. Most people describe the sensation as relaxing; many even feel they could tolerate more pulling force, which tells us the therapy is working without causing muscle guarding.

Results and Treatment Plans

While some people notice improvement after just a few sessions, a full treatment plan usually involves 20-25 visits to maximize disc healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.

We combine decompression therapy with rehabilitation exercises and back care education, helping you maintain your results long-term.

Why Choose Us?

  • Experience: Over 25,000 treatments since 2007
  • Convenience: Multiple tables for flexible scheduling
  • Integrity: No “add-on gimmicks” — just proven, targeted care
  • Long-Term Focus: Rehab and education to help you stay pain-free

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from traction or inversion tables?
Traction is a simple static force applied to the patient’s body with the intent of unloading joints, muscles and other structures. For example, hanging upside-down puts the spine into traction using body weight to unload the spine rather than compress it.
While various forms of traction have existed for over 1000 years, pain relief has been inconsistent and short-lived. Several clinical studies have shown traction to be ineffective for back and neck pain relief. The reason is that our bodies react to static unloading (stretching) of the spine by contracting the muscles surrounding the spine. Rather than unloading the spine, pressure is actually increased, thus increasing intradiscal pressure. This prevents discs from rehydrating and healing.

Spinal decompression uses computer technology to control variations in the spine’s unloading, effectively avoiding the body’s muscle contraction response. The traction tension varies over time, allowing the doctor to control progressive tension steps, how long tensions are held, and how often they’re repeated. Because spinal decompression avoids the muscle contraction response, intradiscal pressure is lowered to create a vacuum with negative pressure. This vacuum allows herniated material to be drawn back into place and permits disc rehydration, providing lasting pain relief.

Does it work for everyone?

While many patients see significant improvement, results vary depending on the condition. Published studies report success rates between 70-90% for appropriate candidates. We will only recommend decompression if we believe it can help you.

Is it covered by insurance?

Alberta Health Care does not cover spinal decompression. Some private insurers may cover part of the cost, so it’s worth checking with your provider.

How much does it cost?

Our fee is $105 per treatment—significantly less than many other providers charging $175-$225. Flexible payment options are available.

What if I’m not a candidate?

If decompression isn’t right for you, we’ll explain why and recommend other treatments, which may include referrals to medical or surgical specialists if necessary.

Ready to Find Out if You’re a Candidate?

We offer a free consultation to assess your condition and see if spinal decompression could help. Call our Edmonton office today to book your visit.

CONTACT US »

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Spinal Decompression Ermineskin, Southwest Edmonton AB | (780) 628-7219