Pinched nerves are a common yet often debilitating cause of back, neck, and radiating pain. Whether the discomfort presents as sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness, nerve compression can interfere with daily activities and significantly reduce quality of life. For individuals seeking relief without surgery or long-term medication use, non-surgical spinal decompression may offer a conservative and effective treatment option.
In this article, we’ll explore what pinched nerves are, what causes them, and how spinal decompression therapy provided by a trusted Draper Chiropractor may help relieve nerve pressure and support healing.
What Is a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is placed on a nerve by surrounding structures such as bones, discs, muscles, or ligaments. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s normal function, often leading to pain and neurological symptoms.
Pinched nerves can develop anywhere along the spine but are most common in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions. When nerve compression occurs in the lower back, it may cause symptoms that travel down the leg, commonly referred to as sciatica. In the neck, a pinched nerve may lead to pain or numbness radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
Common Causes of Pinched Nerves
Several spinal conditions can contribute to nerve compression, including:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal misalignments
- Bone spurs
- Poor posture or repetitive strain
- Injury from accidents or overuse
Over time, these conditions can reduce the space through which nerves travel, increasing pressure and irritation.
How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Helps Pinched Nerves
Non-surgical spinal decompression is designed to gently relieve pressure within the spine, which can directly address the underlying cause of pinched nerves.
During decompression therapy, the spine is carefully stretched using a specialized table that applies controlled, intermittent traction. This process helps create negative pressure within the disc space, which may allow bulging or herniated discs to retract slightly away from compressed nerves.
By reducing pressure on the affected nerve, spinal decompression may:
- Alleviate pain and discomfort
- Reduce inflammation around the nerve
- Improve nerve function
- Promote circulation of oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues
Unlike traditional traction, decompression is computer-controlled and tailored to the patient’s condition, allowing for a more precise and comfortable experience.
Symptoms That May Improve With Spinal Decompression
Patients experiencing the following symptoms related to nerve compression may benefit from spinal decompression therapy:
- Sharp or burning pain in the back or neck
- Radiating pain into the arms or legs
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
- Numbness in the extremities
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with sitting or movement
A chiropractor will evaluate your symptoms and spinal health to determine whether decompression therapy is appropriate.
What to Expect During Treatment
Spinal decompression sessions are typically comfortable and non-invasive. Patients lie on a padded table while a harness gently supports specific areas of the body. The table moves in slow, controlled cycles designed to stretch and relax the spine.
Most sessions last between 20 and 45 minutes. Some patients notice improvement early in care, while others experience gradual relief as pressure on the nerve decreases over time.
Treatment plans usually involve multiple sessions spread over several weeks to allow the spine and discs to respond effectively.
Is Spinal Decompression Safe for Pinched Nerves?
When performed by a trained chiropractor, non-surgical spinal decompression is generally considered safe for patients with nerve compression caused by disc-related issues. However, it may not be recommended for individuals with certain conditions, such as spinal fractures, severe osteoporosis, or specific surgical implants.
A thorough consultation, examination, and review of medical history help ensure that decompression is a safe and appropriate option.
Chiropractic Care and Long-Term Nerve Relief
Spinal decompression is often most effective when combined with other chiropractic therapies. Chiropractic adjustments, corrective exercises, posture guidance, and lifestyle recommendations can help address contributing factors that place stress on the spine and nerves.
Working with a knowledgeable Draper Chiropractor allows for a comprehensive approach that focuses not only on relieving symptoms, but also on improving spinal alignment and long-term nerve health.
When to Seek Care for a Pinched Nerve
If nerve-related pain persists, worsens, or begins to interfere with daily activities, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Early, conservative care may help prevent the condition from becoming chronic or requiring more invasive treatment.
Non-surgical spinal decompression offers a drug-free, surgery-free option for individuals looking to address the root cause of pinched nerve pain.
Considering spinal decompression for a pinched nerve? A chiropractic consultation can help determine whether this gentle, targeted therapy may support your recovery and improve your quality of life.
