Spinal Decompression Treatment in Murrieta, CA
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment designed to gently reduce pressure within the spine. Through controlled, targeted stretching, this therapy supports improved spinal spacing and reduced mechanical stress on discs and surrounding structures.
Spinal decompression is commonly used as part of a conservative chiropractic approach to support mobility and healing. This form of care differs from surgical spinal decompression procedures such as laminectomy.
Led by Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C., decompression therapy is carefully tailored to individual needs and combined with a movement-based approach. At California Oaks Chiropractic, our goal is to support spinal function, improve comfort, and encourage healthier movement without medication or surgery.
Call (951) 698-2511 to book an appointment.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression in chiropractic care is a non-invasive therapy aimed at reducing pressure on the spinal discs and nerves. It uses a motorized traction table to stretch the spine, relax the muscles, and temporarily change the force of gravity to reduce pressure on the discs.
Decompression therapy helps restore the natural spacing between the vertebrae and improves overall spinal health.
What to Expect During Spinal Decompression Treatment
We start the patient off at a moderate level to see how the body responds, as some soreness is common in the beginning. From there, we gradually increase the decompression load and session frequency to achieve further results.
Usually, around 15 to 20 treatments is where the biggest positive gain happens. This is because muscles and soft tissues need time to stretch. The discs also need time to reabsorb fluid and reduce the protrusion.
Decompression therapy works by applying traction to the lower back, allowing fluid to accumulate in the disc, and allowing the annular fibers around the disc to begin healing. It does take more than one treatment. It takes time to stretch the soft tissues and allow fluid to re-enter the disc.
At California Oaks Chiropractic, we also have a cervical traction unit designed specifically to apply traction to the discs in the neck area, working in a very similar way to lumbar (lower back) decompression.
Spinal Decompression Patient Case Studies
Recovery from Severe Multi-Level Disc Protrusion Using Spinal Decompression
Patient Information: A male military munitions expert who carried heavy equipment and dealt with recoil from weapons testing all day.
Symptoms: He came in hunched over in excruciating pain and was unable to stand up straight. He could not sleep and could not do very much at all. He had neurological symptoms going into both lower extremities, including muscle weakness and muscle atrophy. He had already tried physical therapy, seen his medical doctor, and tried acupuncture without improvement. He was skeptical that anything would help.
Diagnosis: An MRI showed a nine millimeter disc protrusion in the lumbar spine at L5, along with two additional disc protrusions at L3-L4 and L4-L5, measuring six and seven millimeters, respectively. Anything from six to seven millimeters is typically considered a surgical referral.
Treatments: His treatment plan over two and a half months included spinal decompression, shockwave therapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic treatment. Spinal decompression was one of the biggest parts of his treatment that he said helped him the most.
Outcome: On the last day of his treatment, he walked out of the clinic with zero pain, a fully upright posture, and complete resolution of his neurological symptoms in both lower extremities. His muscle tone returned, and he was able to exercise again. He lost 20 pounds following treatment because he was able to be physically active again. He was excited to start a maintenance plan.
Management of a 10mm Disc Protrusion on Spinal Cord Through Spinal Decompression
Patient Information: Dr. Phillip Vournazos as a college football player.
Symptoms: Dr. Phillip had severe and painful bulging discs. He could not walk for six months and was told surgery was his only option. The disc protrusions were sustained during his college football career.
Diagnosis: He was diagnosed with three disc protrusions. One of them was a 10 millimeter disc protrusion sitting directly on his spinal cord.
Treatments: He underwent spinal decompression therapy.
Outcome: By three months into spinal decompression treatment, he was starting to walk again. By six months, he had fully recovered and was back to normal without surgery.
Spinal Decompression Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Jasmine K Saleh
I was in need of a serious adjustment & Dr. K and his staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. They took me in the same day I called, within 10 min I was booked and, in the office...
Read on Google
Denise
Just WOW! Everyone at California Oaks Chiropractic in Murrieta was just professional and very nice. I felt immediately comfortable. Dr. K was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease...
Read on Google
Abby Ngo
I had a great experience with Dr. K. This is top-notch chiropractic care! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, listened to, and well taken care of. Dr. K combines strong knowledge...
Read on Google
Rick Scherer
My family and I have been seeing Dr. K for over 20 years, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family. The office staff is incredibly friendly...
Read on Google
Sandra Guzman
If you are looking for a chiropractor with a lot of knowledge, friendly staff who feels like family, and an overall welcoming environment, this is your place! Dr. K has been vital in helping my husband and I...
Read on Google
Lorretta Marcum
This morning I was lucky enough to see a Daphne! Oh my heavens do I feel 1000 x better!! Then I saw Dr. Chris for an adjustment and boy does he know his stuff got rid of my sciatica pain instantly...
Read on GoogleBook an Appointment for Spinal Decompression in Murrieta
If you are experiencing back pain, neck pain, or nerve-related symptoms, spinal decompression may be recommended as part of your care.
Dr. Phillip Vournazos will perform a detailed examination to determine whether spinal decompression is an appropriate treatment option for your condition.
Call (951) 698-2511 or book online using the booking tool below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is spinal decompression safe?
Yes, spinal decompression is safe when performed by a trained chiropractor. It’s a non-invasive treatment with minimal risks, offering a gentle approach to reducing spinal pressure and improving mobility.
Who is a good candidate for spinal decompression?
Anytime there is a compressed disc, a patient is usually a candidate for spinal decompression. We determine this through our standard exams. However, patients with instability in the lower back or neck are not candidates, as decompression could increase that instability further.
Which spinal conditions are commonly treated with decompression?
Spinal decompression is one of the biggest tools we use for disc herniations, disc protrusions, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and any kind of disc injury.
How long does each spinal decompression session take?
Each spinal decompression session typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of your condition and your personalized treatment plan.
Is spinal decompression painful?
Spinal decompression is generally not painful. Most patients experience mild stretching or pulling sensations; any discomfort is usually temporary and similar to post-exercise soreness.
Do I need a referral to start spinal decompression treatment?
No referral is required for spinal decompression treatment. You can schedule a consultation directly with your chiropractor to determine if the therapy is right for you.
Can spinal decompression be done without surgery?
Yes, spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment. It provides an effective alternative for reducing spinal pain and pressure without the need for invasive procedures like a laminectomy.
Is spinal decompression safe for older adults?
Yes, spinal decompression is generally safe for older adults. It is a non-invasive treatment that helps alleviate back pain and improve mobility, though individual conditions should be assessed first.
What chiropractic techniques are used alongside spinal decompression?
Flexion-distraction techniques, targeted adjustments, and supportive therapies may be used together.
Does spinal decompression help reduce back pain and sciatica?
Many patients experience reduced pain and improved mobility, though results vary by individual.
What lifestyle changes support spinal decompression results?
Good posture, movement breaks, hydration, and following home guidance help support progress.
Content Reviewed by
