Spinal Decompression Therapy in Toronto
Spinal decompression is a form of controlled traction delivered using a motorized treatment table. It may be considered for some people with back or neck symptoms after a health history and physical assessment.
At Core Wellness Centre, spinal decompression is one of several possible care options. It is not appropriate for everyone, and individual responses to care vary.
Dr. Kris Dorken, DC, is registered to practise as a chiropractor in Ontario and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a type of mechanical traction. During a session, the patient is positioned on a treatment table while controlled traction is applied to a selected area of the spine.
The position, amount of traction and length of the session are selected and monitored by the practitioner. Recommendations are based on the patient’s symptoms, health history, examination findings, comfort and goals.
Spinal decompression may be included as one part of a broader care plan. Receiving an assessment does not mean that this treatment will be recommended.
Who May Request an Assessment?
You may wish to request an assessment if you are experiencing:
- Persistent or recurring back or neck symptoms
- Stiffness or restricted movement
- Symptoms that extend into an arm or leg
- Symptoms associated with a previously diagnosed disc or joint condition
- Questions about whether mechanical traction may be appropriate
- Symptoms that have not improved as expected with previous conservative care
These symptoms do not confirm that spinal decompression is suitable. A diagnosis or treatment recommendation cannot be made from website information alone.
How Suitability Is Assessed
As clinic director, Dr. Kris meets with new patients first. The assessment may include:
- A discussion of your symptoms, health history and goals
- A physical examination relevant to your concerns
- Review of existing reports or diagnostic images when clinically relevant
- Screening for factors that may make traction unsuitable
- An explanation of the findings and available care options
New diagnostic imaging is not automatically required for spinal decompression. If imaging is clinically indicated, the reason, available options and any separate fees will be explained before you decide whether to proceed.
What to Expect During a Session
If spinal decompression is recommended and you consent to care, you will be positioned on the treatment table according to the area being addressed. Supportive straps may be used, and the practitioner will select and monitor the table settings.
Experiences differ between patients. Tell the practitioner if you experience discomfort or would like the session adjusted, paused or stopped.
Your response will be reviewed as care progresses. The frequency and number of appointments cannot be determined from the website or guaranteed before an assessment.
What Are the Goals of Care?
When clinically appropriate, the goals of spinal decompression may include helping manage certain back or neck symptoms and supporting movement or function.
Results differ from person to person. Spinal decompression cannot be presented as guaranteeing pain relief, repairing a disc, permanently correcting the spine, preventing degeneration or eliminating the need for surgery.
If a medical or surgical consultation may be appropriate, Dr. Kris will discuss referral options with you.
.When Might Spinal Decompression Not Be Appropriate?
Suitability can be affected by a person’s health conditions, injuries, previous surgery, pregnancy, bone health, implanted hardware, neurological findings or other clinical factors.
Dr. Kris will review these factors before making a recommendation. Additional health records, diagnostic imaging, medical clearance or referral to another healthcare professional may be needed.
Patients who have previously undergone spinal surgery should not assume that spinal decompression is suitable without an individual assessment and any required medical clearance.
Other Care Options
Depending on your assessment findings, available options may include:
- Education and activity guidance
- Personalized exercises
- Manual chiropractic care
- Other appropriate services available at the clinic
- Referral to another healthcare professional
- Monitoring without starting treatment
Dr. Kris will explain the recommended option, its purpose, reasonable alternatives, possible risks and side effects before asking for your consent. You may ask questions or withdraw your consent at any time.
Click the link to learn more about Dr. Kris and Chiropractic Care.
Spinal Decompression Fees and Insurance
Contact Core Wellness Centre for current assessment and session fees. Before care begins, the clinic will explain the recommended frequency, estimated cost and any separate fees.
Direct billing may be available for eligible extended health plans. Coverage depends on your insurer and individual policy and cannot be guaranteed. Patients are responsible for confirming their coverage and paying any amount not covered by their plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does spinal decompression cure a herniated or bulging disc?
No specific result can be guaranteed. A disc finding on an X-ray, CT scan or MRI does not by itself determine whether spinal decompression is suitable. Recommendations depend on your symptoms, examination findings, health history and clinical needs.
Is spinal decompression the same as surgery?
No. Spinal decompression therapy is a form of mechanical traction and does not involve surgery. It should not be described as a replacement for a surgical consultation when one is medically appropriate.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no standard number that is appropriate for every patient. If care is recommended, the proposed frequency and duration will be discussed after your assessment and reviewed according to your response.
Is spinal decompression painless?
Patient experiences vary. The practitioner will monitor your comfort and can adjust or stop the session if needed. Tell the practitioner about any discomfort during care.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI first?
Not every patient requires new imaging. Bring any existing reports that may be relevant. New imaging should only be recommended when clinically indicated and with your consent.
Is spinal decompression covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurer and plan. Direct billing may be available, but acceptance of a claim and the amount reimbursed are determined by the insurer.
Can I receive spinal decompression after spinal surgery?
Previous surgery requires an individual review. Dr. Kris may need additional records or clearance from another healthcare professional before determining whether traction may be considered.
Request an Initial Assessment
An initial assessment helps determine the nature of your concerns and the care options that may be appropriate. Booking an assessment does not commit you to receiving spinal decompression.
Core Wellness Centre
726 St Clair Ave W
York, ON M6C 1B3
(416) 479-8311
Core Wellness Centre is not an emergency facility. Seek urgent medical assessment for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, new weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or symptoms following major trauma.