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Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Right for Me?

Who tends to be a candidate for spinal decompression, who is not, and what a course of care realistically involves.

Short answer

Decompression is most often considered for disc-related pain with nerve symptoms that has not responded to other conservative care. Candidacy is decided by examination, not by symptoms alone.

Reviewed by Dr. Dean Younker, D.C.

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Last reviewed August 1, 2026

What the table does

Decompression applies a slow, controlled traction cycle to a targeted spinal segment. The intent is to reduce pressure across the disc and the nerve tissue near it, without the force of a manual technique.

Sessions are passive. Most people read or rest through them.

Who tends to be a candidate

Patients with disc-related low back or neck pain, particularly with radiating symptoms, who have already tried rest, activity change, and other conservative care without lasting improvement.

Who is not

Decompression is not appropriate for everyone. Certain fractures, advanced osteoporosis, spinal hardware, tumors, pregnancy, and some vascular conditions rule it out. That screening is part of the examination.

What a course looks like

Care is usually a series of sessions over several weeks, combined with other work rather than used alone. Your response in the first phase determines whether it continues. No number of visits is promised in advance.

Dr. Dean Younker, D.C., chiropractor at Peak Performance Chiropractic Clinic in Grand Junction, Colorado

Meet your chiropractor

Meet Dr. Dean Younker

Dr. Dean Younker took over Peak Performance in 1997 and has cared for patients in Grand Junction ever since. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Northern Colorado and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Cleveland University in Kansas City. He is a member of the Colorado Chiropractic Association and the Grand Junction Chiropractor Association.

“Because no two patients are the same, here at Peak Performance, we take the time to listen to each patient. We then develop a personalized treatment plan. Our promise is to help you live your life better.”

Medical disclaimer

This page is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results vary from person to person and no outcome is guaranteed. Always speak with a qualified provider about your own situation, and call 911 for a medical emergency.

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