Decompression & Traction for Lumbar Pain
Introduction: Chiropractic Care in Tampa Bay
If you’re seeking relief from lower back pain in Temple Terrace or the Tampa area, you'd benefit from individualized spinal decompression therapy, lumbar traction, and comprehensive chiropractic back pain care. In my decade practicing chiropractic, I’ve helped many patients recover mobility and reduce pain through these conservative, drug-free techniques.
Who Is a Candidate for Decompression & Traction Therapy?
An ideal candidate for spinal decompression (and lumbar traction) is someone experiencing chronic low back pain, often radiating into the legs (sciatica), resulting from herniated, bulging, or degenerative discs, and who has not found lasting relief after several weeks of conservative treatment such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, or medications. Typically, these patients are in good overall health, eighteen or older, and committed to a treatment protocol over several weeks. However, certain conditions—such as spinal fusion, recent vertebral fractures, severe osteoporosis, spinal tumors or infections, implanted hardware, or pregnancy—may make someone unsuitable for this type of therapy
What Is Lumbar Traction & Spinal Decompression?
Lumbar Traction and Non‑Surgical Spinal Decompression
Traction involves gently stretching the lumbar spine to relieve pressure on compressed discs and nerve roots, such as in sciatica cases. Studies have shown long-term benefit, pain relief and improved range of motion, especially when combined with tailored exercise therapy.
Spinal decompression uses a traction table that applies alternating pull and release cycles to relieve disc pressure. Research suggests higher success rates as compared to surgical intervention—around 85–90% of patients with herniated discs or sciatica report significant improvement. A randomized controlled trial also showed decompression plus core stabilization exercise reduced pain and disability more than conventional therapies alone.
Why These Therapies Work (With Chiropractic Perspective)
At Pinnacle Chiropractic we integrate decompression and traction with spinal adjustments, core‑focused rehabilitation, and lifestyle guidance. Traction helps break the pain–spasm cycle, and decompression encourages disc healing and nutrient flow. Combining these with exercise, posture correction, and manual spinal manipulation often results in better outcomes than any therapy alone.
Long‑Term Relief: Lifestyle & Chiropractic Strategy
Healing doesn’t end at the office. I empower patients with practical advice on posture during work and recreation, ergonomic adjustments, and a core strength routine. Temple Terrace walking paths, Tampa tennis courts, or local kayak trails become part of recovery.
What to Expect at Your First Consultation
Comprehensive evaluation: medical history, symptom review, ROM tests, imaging if available
Personalized plan: if suitable, we begin decompression and traction with individually calibrated settings
Supportive therapies: manual adjustment, therapeutic stretching, ultrasound or cold/heat modalities
Recovery timeline: most patients notice improvement within 6–10 sessions; full course often spans 12–20 treatments over 4–6 weeks
Maintenance plan: tailored home routine and periodic check‑ups to prevent recurrence
Final Thoughts: Relief Without Surgery
Whether it be from a motor vehicle accident, slip and fall, workers compensation injury or just normal wear and tear; if lower back pain has limited your life spinal decompression, lumbar traction, and chiropractic care offer a well-supported, non-surgical route to relief. We provide evidence-guided, hands-on care focused on healing, mobility, and long-term wellness.
By Dr. Zachary Riecker, DC - Serving Temple Terrace & Tampa, FL
