What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses a specialized motorized traction table to carefully stretch the spine in a controlled, precise manner. Unlike traditional traction, modern spinal decompression computers monitor and adjust the pull throughout the session to prevent muscle guarding — a key reason it’s significantly more effective.

During treatment at LiveWell Chiropractic & Wellness, you remain fully clothed and comfortably positioned on the table while the device gently distracts specific spinal segments. Most patients find sessions relaxing and many report noticeable relief within the first few visits.

How it works:

• Creates a vacuum-like effect inside the disc
• Retracts herniated or bulging disc material away from nerve roots
• Increases circulation of nutrient-rich fluids into the disc
• Promotes natural healing of damaged disc tissue
• Reduces pressure on compressed spinal nerves

Spinal decompression is often used alongside chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercise, and massage therapy as part of a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs.

Conditions Treated with Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression therapy at our La Crosse clinic can benefit patients suffering from a wide range of spinal conditions. Our chiropractors will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for this treatment.

Common conditions we treat include:

• Herniated or bulging discs — One of the most frequent causes of back and neck pain, herniated discs can compress nearby nerves and cause intense pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Degenerative disc disease — As discs lose height and hydration over time, decompression therapy can slow deterioration and provide meaningful pain relief.
• Sciatica — Radiating pain, tingling, or numbness running from the lower back down the leg is often caused by a compressed sciatic nerve that decompression directly addresses.
• Spinal stenosis — Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on nerves; decompression creates more space and reduces irritation.
• Facet syndrome — Worn or inflamed facet joints in the spine can cause chronic pain that responds well to decompression therapy.
• Failed back surgery syndrome — Patients who continue to experience pain after spinal surgery may find relief through conservative decompression treatment.
• Pinched nerves (radiculopathy) — Whether in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) spine, pinched nerves benefit from reduced disc and joint pressure.
• Posterior facet syndrome — Compression on the posterior joints of the spine can cause localized and referred pain that responds to targeted decompression.

Not sure if spinal decompression is right for you? Call LiveWell Chiropractic & Wellness today to schedule a consultation with one of our La Crosse chiropractors.

What to Expect During Your Visit

We believe an informed patient is an empowered patient. Here’s what your spinal decompression experience at LiveWell Chiropractic & Wellness typically looks like from start to finish.

Your First Visit

Your first appointment begins with a comprehensive consultation and physical examination. Our chiropractor will review your health history, discuss your symptoms, and may order or review imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans to confirm your diagnosis and rule out any contraindications. If spinal decompression is appropriate for your condition, we’ll explain exactly how the treatment works and what to expect.

Your Treatment Sessions

Each decompression session typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll lie comfortably on our specialized decompression table while a custom-fitted harness is secured around your pelvis or torso, depending on whether we are treating the lumbar or cervical spine. The computerized table then gently applies and releases traction in a rhythmic pattern throughout the session.

Most patients feel a gentle stretching sensation that becomes deeply relaxing. Some notice immediate relief from pressure; others experience progressive improvement over several sessions.

Your Treatment Plan

A full course of spinal decompression therapy typically involves 15–30 sessions scheduled over 4–6 weeks, depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition. We combine decompression with complementary therapies — including chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic ultrasound, and rehabilitative exercises — to maximize your results and support long-term spinal health.

Why Choose LiveWell Chiropractic & Wellness in La Crosse?

La Crosse residents have a choice when it comes to chiropractic and wellness care, and we’re proud to be the trusted provider families in the Coulee Region turn to for advanced, compassionate treatment.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced, caring team — Our chiropractors bring years of specialized training and genuine passion for helping patients overcome pain and reclaim their lives.
• Advanced decompression technology — We use state-of-the-art computerized decompression equipment that delivers precise, consistent treatment for superior results.
• Whole-person wellness approach — We don’t just treat symptoms. We look at your overall health, lifestyle, and goals to build a care plan that works for you.
• Convenient La Crosse location — Centrally located and easy to access for patients throughout La Crosse County and the surrounding communities.
• Transparent, patient-first care — We take time to explain every step of your treatment so you always feel confident and in control of your health journey.
• Flexible scheduling — We offer appointment times designed to fit busy lives, so getting the care you need doesn’t have to be a hassle.

We’re proud to serve the La Crosse, WI community and neighboring areas including Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Sparta, and Winona, MN.