Spinal Decompression Therapy in Kent, WA
Non-surgical relief for herniated discs, sciatica, and chronic low back pain using the DOC Decompression Table — right here in Kent, WA.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical, traction-based treatment that gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on compressed discs and nerve roots. By creating negative intradiscal pressure, decompression pulls herniated or bulging disc material back toward the center, allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to flood back into the disc — promoting natural healing.
At Palmer Chiropractic in Kent, WA, Dr. Brian J. Bussard uses the DOC Decompression Table — a computerized system that delivers precise, controlled traction forces tailored to your specific condition. This is not the same as simple traction — the DOC system uses a patented logarithmic curve to prevent muscle guarding, maximizing disc rehydration and healing.
Conditions We Treat with Spinal Decompression in Kent, WA
Primarily focused on lumbar spine conditions causing back pain, leg pain, and nerve symptoms
Herniated & Bulging Discs
Lumbar disc herniations causing low back pain, radiating leg pain, and nerve compression. Decompression creates negative pressure to retract disc material.
Sciatica
Sharp, burning, or shooting pain radiating from the low back down the leg. Often caused by disc herniation or bone spur compression of the sciatic nerve.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Chronic low back pain from disc dehydration and height loss over time. Decompression rehydrates discs and restores spacing between vertebrae.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal causing back and leg pain, especially with walking or standing. Decompression reduces pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Persistent pain after lumbar spine surgery. Many post-surgical patients find significant relief with decompression when other treatments have failed.
Chronic Low Back Pain
Persistent lumbar pain lasting more than 12 weeks that has not responded to rest, medication, or standard physical therapy.
Are You a Candidate for Spinal Decompression?
Dr. Bussard will evaluate your case — but here are general guidelines
✅ Good Candidates
- Herniated or bulging lumbar discs
- Sciatica or radiating leg pain
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Failed conservative care
- Wanting to avoid surgery
❌ Not Recommended For
- Pregnancy
- Spinal fractures or tumors
- Severe osteoporosis
- Metal spinal implants or fusion hardware
- Aortic aneurysm
- Advanced spinal instability
What to Expect During Treatment
Your spinal decompression session at Palmer Chiropractic in Kent, WA
Consultation
Dr. Bussard reviews your history, imaging, and symptoms to determine if spinal decompression is appropriate for your condition.
Setup
You are comfortably positioned on the DOC Decompression Table. A harness is fitted around your pelvis to deliver precise traction force.
Treatment
The table cycles through gentle distraction and relaxation phases over 15–30 minutes. Most patients find it comfortable and relaxing.
Follow-Up Care
Sessions are typically 3x per week for 4–6 weeks. Cold laser therapy and chiropractic adjustments are often combined for maximum results.
Clinical Research Supporting Spinal Decompression
Peer-reviewed evidence for non-surgical disc treatment
Influences of Spinal Decompression Therapy and General Traction Therapy on Pain, Disability, and Straight Leg Raising in Patients with Intervertebral Disc Herniation
Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 2015 Feb;27(2):481-3 — PubMed PMID: 25729196
This study compared spinal decompression therapy directly against general traction therapy in patients with chronic lumbar disc herniation. The spinal decompression group showed significantly greater reductions in pain and disability scores, and greater improvement in straight leg raise ability, than the traction group.
Clinical Takeaway: Spinal decompression therapy outperforms standard traction for disc herniation patients — producing superior reductions in pain, disability, and nerve tension signs.
Vertebral Axial Decompression Therapy for Pain Associated with Herniated or Degenerated Discs or Facet Syndrome: An Outcome Study
Gose EE, Naguszewski WK, Naguszewski RK. Neurological Research. 1998 Apr;20(3):186-190.
Data collected from 22 medical centers on 778 patients diagnosed with herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or facet syndrome — all confirmed by diagnostic imaging. Pain, activity, and mobility scores greatly improved in 71% of patients studied. The authors concluded that VAX-D decompression should be considered a primary treatment modality for lumbar herniations and degenerative disc disease before pursuing surgery.
Clinical Takeaway: Over 71% of 778 patients with imaging-confirmed disc disease achieved meaningful improvement — one of the largest outcome studies on spinal decompression therapy published to date.
Effect of Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression on Intensity of Pain and Herniated Disc Volume in Subacute Lumbar Herniated Disc
Choi E, et al. International Journal of Clinical Practice. 2022;2022:6343837 — PMC9553669
This prospective randomized controlled trial at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital measured both clinical outcomes and MRI disc volume before and after nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy. Results showed statistically significant reductions in pain intensity, functional disability, and — critically — measurable reduction in herniated disc volume confirmed on MRI follow-up imaging.
Clinical Takeaway: MRI-confirmed reduction in disc herniation volume following decompression therapy — objective imaging evidence that treatment produces real structural changes, not just symptom masking.
Clinical Bottom Line
Spinal decompression is backed by peer-reviewed evidence for:
✅ Herniated & Bulging Discs
✅ Sciatica & Nerve Pain
✅ Degenerative Disc Disease
Frequently Asked Questions — Spinal Decompression Kent WA
Is spinal decompression painful?
Most patients find decompression comfortable and relaxing. You may feel a gentle stretching sensation in your lower back. If you experience any sharp pain during treatment, Dr. Bussard will immediately adjust the settings.
How many spinal decompression sessions will I need?
A typical decompression protocol is 12–20 sessions over 4–6 weeks. Many patients notice improvement within the first 6–8 sessions. Dr. Bussard will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Does insurance cover spinal decompression in Kent, WA?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance plans cover decompression under physical medicine benefits. Workers' comp and auto accident cases often cover decompression as part of injury treatment. Call us at (253) 854-7700 and we will verify your benefits before your first visit.
Can decompression be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Spinal decompression in Kent, WA at Palmer Chiropractic is frequently combined with chiropractic adjustments, cold laser therapy, and massage therapy for a comprehensive, accelerated recovery protocol.
Is this the same as regular traction?
No. The DOC Decompression Table uses a computerized logarithmic distraction curve that prevents muscle guarding — a key limitation of older traction devices. This allows true disc decompression and rehydration that simple traction cannot achieve.
Do I need an MRI before starting spinal decompression?
An MRI is helpful but not always required. Dr. Bussard will review your history, symptoms, and any existing imaging to determine if decompression is appropriate. If imaging is needed, he can refer you for an MRI locally.
Ready to Avoid Surgery and Get Your Life Back?
Dr. Brian J. Bussard has been helping Kent patients recover from disc injuries without surgery since 1998. Call today or book online — new patients welcome.
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