Who is a candidate for spinal decompression?

Good candidates include patients with herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, facet syndrome, or failed back surgery syndrome. Dr. DeFabio reviews imaging and performs an examination before recommending decompression — not every back pain patient is an appropriate candidate.

Is spinal decompression painful?

Most patients find the treatment comfortable. Sessions are typically 30 minutes. Some patients experience mild soreness after initial sessions as the spine adapts, but significant pain during treatment is uncommon and should be reported immediately.

How many sessions are typically needed?

A typical protocol involves 15 to 20 sessions over 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and your response to treatment. Progress is monitored throughout and the plan adjusted accordingly.

Does insurance cover spinal decompression?

Coverage varies by plan. Some insurers classify spinal decompression as experimental. Our team will verify your benefits before treatment begins and discuss all financial options transparently.

Spinal Decompression Therapy in Berkeley Heights, NJ

How Spinal Decompression Works

When a spinal disc herniates or degenerates, the disc material can press against adjacent nerve roots, producing pain that radiates into the arms or legs. Conventional traction applies steady, uniform tension — spinal decompression therapy applies computer-controlled, variable traction cycles that create a true negative-pressure environment inside the disc.

This negative intradiscal pressure serves two critical functions: it allows herniated or bulging disc material to retract away from the nerve, and it draws oxygen, water, and nutrients back into the disc itself — supporting the body's natural healing mechanism.

Dr. Donald DeFabio administering spinal decompression therapy to a patient at DeFabio Chiropractic in Berkeley Heights, NJ

What Conditions Benefit

Lumbar disc herniation — often the cause of leg pain (sciatica) radiating below the knee
Cervical disc herniation — causing neck pain, arm numbness, or tingling into the fingers
Degenerative disc disease — loss of disc height and hydration over time
Facet syndrome — compression and inflammation of the small joints between vertebrae
Failed back surgery syndrome — persistent pain following spinal surgical procedures
Bulging discs — disc wall deformation without full herniation

The DeFabio Protocol

Dr. Donald DeFabio conducting a clinical consultation at DeFabio Chiropractic Spine and Sports Rehab in Berkeley Heights, NJ

Examination Before Equipment

Dr. DeFabio reviews your imaging and performs a detailed clinical examination before scheduling any decompression sessions. Patients with certain fractures, spinal instability, severe osteoporosis, or prior spinal fusion may not be appropriate candidates — these contraindications are screened carefully.

Customized Treatment Parameters

The treatment table is programmed to your specific spinal level, body weight, and tension tolerance. Parameters are adjusted session by session based on your response. No two protocols are identical.

Integrated Support

Decompression works best as part of a broader plan that includes spinal adjustments to restore joint mechanics, targeted exercises to stabilize the affected segment, and Winback TECAR therapy to support soft tissue healing around the disc.

What a Session Looks Like

You lie comfortably on the motorized decompression table. A harness is fitted around your pelvis or torso depending on the region being treated. The table applies gentle, intermittent traction for approximately 30 minutes. Most patients find sessions relaxing. You are monitored throughout and can stop the session at any time.

Is spinal decompression right for your disc injury?

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. DeFabio to find out if you are a candidate for non-surgical spinal decompression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is spinal decompression therapy?

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical traction-based treatment that uses computer-controlled variable tension to reduce intradiscal pressure, encouraging herniated material to retract and allowing nutrients back into the disc.

Who is a candidate?

Good candidates have herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or facet syndrome. Dr. DeFabio screens for contraindications before any recommendation is made.

Is it painful?

Most patients find sessions comfortable. Mild soreness after initial sessions is normal. Significant pain during treatment should be reported immediately.

How many sessions are needed?

A typical protocol involves 15–20 sessions over 4–6 weeks, monitored and adjusted based on your response.

Does insurance cover it?

Coverage varies. Some plans classify it as experimental. We verify benefits before treatment begins and discuss all financial options.

Spinal Decompression Therapy