Spinal Decompression Therapy in Cary & Wake Forest, NC
If you are struggling with chronic back pain, disc bulges, herniated discs, or nerve-related symptoms, non-surgical spinal decompression therapy may be an effective treatment option. At Chiropractic Pain & Injury Center, we provide evidence-based spinal decompression therapy in Cary and Wake Forest, NC, as part of a structured, physician-directed care plan focused on long-term functional recovery—not temporary relief.
Our approach combines advanced decompression technology with clinical evaluation, targeted chiropractic care, and rehabilitative strategies designed to reduce pressure on spinal discs and irritated nerves.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that gently and precisely stretches the spine using controlled traction. This process reduces pressure within injured or degenerated spinal discs, helping to promote:
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Improved disc hydration and nutrient exchange
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Reduced nerve compression
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Decreased inflammation and pain
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Improved mobility and function
Unlike general traction, medical spinal decompression is carefully programmed and monitored to target specific spinal segments based on examination findings.
Conditions That May Benefit from Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression therapy is commonly recommended for patients with:
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Disc bulges or herniated discs
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Degenerative disc disease
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Sciatica or radiating leg pain
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Chronic low back or neck pain
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Facet joint dysfunction
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Nerve compression or disc-related nerve irritation
Not every patient is a candidate. That’s why decompression at our offices is never performed without a comprehensive evaluation.
Our Clinical Approach to Spinal Decompression
At Chiropractic Pain & Injury Center, spinal decompression is not offered as a standalone or “one-size-fits-all” service. Instead, it is incorporated into a structured care program based on your diagnosis, goals, and response to treatment.
Your care may include:
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Detailed history and physical examination
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Neurological and orthopedic testing
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Review of imaging when appropriate
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Decompression therapy tailored to the affected spinal region
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Chiropractic adjustments when clinically indicated
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Supportive therapies to reduce inflammation and promote healing
This integrated approach allows us to address both mechanical stress and functional deficits, improving the likelihood of lasting results.
Non-Surgical Decompression vs. Surgery
Many patients seek spinal decompression because they want to avoid surgery or injections whenever possible. While surgery may be necessary in certain cases, non-surgical spinal decompression can be an appropriate conservative option for patients who:
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Have not responded to basic care
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Want to explore non-invasive treatment first
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Are not surgical candidates
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Prefer a structured, conservative approach
We work within evidence-based guidelines and will refer out if surgical or medical care is more appropriate.
The Benefits Of Spinal Decompression
- Cost-Effective: Compared to the cost of surgery spinal decompression is a cost-effective alternative. This non-invasive therapy does not usually require a recovery period, and most patients report that they feel rejuvenated after the treatment.
- Promotes Healing and Overall Good Health: Spinal decompression harnesses the body’s own natural healing processes to relieve pain. This therapy helps to increase blood flow, and increased nutrient supply into the disc. Additionally, this treatment helps to reduce nerve compression, and reduce the pressure on the spinal discs.
- Non-invasive Treatment: This non-surgical procedure can help to relieve cases of back and neck pain without the need for more invasive procedures. After neck or back surgery, many patients may be bed-ridden and can experience discomfort for weeks. Moreover, there is s no guarantee of full relief from pain after back or neck surgery.
- No Recovery Time: There is little to no recovery time associated with spinal decompression. In fact, once your treatment is completed, you will likely be able to drive yourself home or back to work.
- Reduced Pain: Spinal decompression therapy helps to reduce pain and muscle guarding, and to improve spinal mobility. Additionally, this therapy can promote the healing of spinal disc tissue, and when it is coupled with positive lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, the pain-relieving benefits of spinal decompression can be maximized.

Your Spinal Decompression Treatment Plan
- Evaluation Process-Objective Testing: We thoroughly evaluate the complete history of your problem. We will perform a spinal examination, with range of motion using dual inclinometers, a biomechanical assessment of your posture and movement patterns, a neurological evaluation, and orthopedic testing.
- Diagnostic Imaging: If we determine that imaging is needed, we will order the appropriate diagnostic imaging, which could include x-rays or MRIs to determine the cause of your problem. Bring any past diagnostic imaging to your appointment for us to evaluate.
- Treatment Plan: Based on the results of our findings, we will develop a customized individual treatment plan. This plan will detail the type of treatment you need for your decompression plan. We will identify any lifestyle factors that contribute to your pain. You will learn specific correctional exercises and stretching of tight muscles in your custom treatment plan.
Videos
Neck Decompression
Low Back Decompression
Scientific Research Supports Spinal Decompression Therapy
- Spinal Decompression Research Paper 1 »
- Spinal Decompression Research Paper 2 »
- Disc Distraction Shows Evidence of Regenerative Potential in Degenerated Intervertebral Discs »
SPINE 2006 Disc repair fundamentally depends on the stage of disc degeneration CONCLUSION: This study with respect to previous reports, confirms that disc distraction enhances hydration in the degenerated disc and may improve disc nutrition via the vertebral endplates. Thorsten Guehring, MD, et al; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Germany. SPINE (Vol. 31, Number 15, 2006)
- Efficacy of Vertebral Axial Decompression on Chronic Low Back Pain
CONCLUSION: This 144 patient study showed 76% achieved remission of pain. Except in emergent conditions, Vertebral Axial Decompression should be used on all conditions before surgery is undertaken. Journal of Neurologic Research (Vol. 29, No. 3, March 2003)
- Disc Distraction Shows Evidence of Regenerative Potential in Degenerated Intervertebral Discs »
SPINE 2006 Disc repair fundamentally depends on the stage of disc degeneration CONCLUSION: This study with respect to previous reports, confirms that disc distraction enhances hydration in the degenerated disc and may improve disc nutrition via the vertebral endplates. Thorsten Guehring, MD, et al; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Germany. SPINE (Vol. 31, Number 15, 2006)
- Efficacy of Vertebral Axial Decompression on Chronic Low Back Pain
CONCLUSION: This 144 patient study showed 76% achieved remission of pain. Except in emergent conditions, Vertebral Axial Decompression should be used on all conditions before surgery is undertaken. Journal of Neurologic Research (Vol. 29, No. 3, March 2003)
- Surgical Alternatives: Spinal Decompression »
CONCLUSION: 86% of the 219 patients who completed the therapy reported immediate resolution of symptoms, while 84% remained pain-free 90 days post-treatment. Physical examination findings showed improvement in 92% of the 219 patients, and remained intact in 89% of these patients 90 days after treatment. It was shown to be effective for herniated and degenerative discs. Orthopedic Technology Review (2003; 6 (5))
- Decompression, Reduction, and Stabilization of the Lumbar Spine: A Cost Effective Treatment »
CONCLUSION: Eighty six percent of herniated intervertebral disc patients achieved ‘good’ (50-89% improvement) to ‘excellent’ (90-100% improvement) results with decompression. Sciatica and back pain were relieved. Facet arthrosis patients, 75% obtained ‘good’ to ‘excellent’ results with decompression. American Journal of Pain Management (Vol. 7, No.2, April 1997)
- Vertebral Axial Decompression Reduces Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain-4 Year Study »
CONCLUSION: Four-year follow-up after Decompression method shows a sustained 86% reduction in pain and that 91% of patients had resumed their normal activities and has remained pain free. Anesthesiology News, (Vol. 29, No. 3, March 2003)
What to Expect During Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression sessions are typically comfortable and closely monitored. Patients remain fully clothed and are positioned on a specialized decompression table. Treatment sessions are usually short and are scheduled as part of a defined care plan rather than open-ended visits.
Progress is reassessed throughout care to determine response and next steps.
Spinal Decompression in Cary & Wake Forest, NC
We proudly offer spinal decompression therapy at our Cary and Wake Forest locations, serving patients throughout Wake County and surrounding areas. Care is delivered in a private, professional environment with a focus on thorough evaluation, patient education, and functional outcomes.
If you are searching for:
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Spinal decompression Cary NC
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Non-surgical spinal decompression Wake Forest
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Decompression therapy for disc bulges or sciatica
—you are in the right place.
Schedule an Evaluation
The first step is determining whether spinal decompression is appropriate for your condition. We begin with a focused evaluation to identify the cause of your symptoms and discuss appropriate treatment options.
Schedule an appointment today to learn whether non-surgical spinal decompression therapy may be part of your recovery plan.
Get Started Today
Call today to schedule your free consultation to see if spinal decompression is right for you!

