Traditional traction applies a sustained, fixed pulling force, which often triggers muscle guarding as the body tenses up in response, reducing its effectiveness. Spinal decompression therapy uses a computerised system that applies force in a cyclic pattern, alternating between a peak distraction phase and a partial release phase throughout the session. This rhythmic approach helps keep the surrounding muscles relaxed, allowing the force to reach the target disc more effectively. The gradual ramp-up and ramp-down at the start and end of each session further distinguishes it from older traction methods. Your Practitioner will customise the decompression forces according to your condition and can target the precise level we’re looking to decompression

Possibly, but it depends on the type of surgery you had and how long ago it was performed. Some post-surgical patients are suitable candidates, particularly those experiencing ongoing pain after a discectomy, laminectomy or other Minimally Invasive Surgeries (M.I.S). However, spinal decompression is generally not appropriate if you have spinal hardware such as rods, screws, or fusion implants at the level being treated, or if your surgery was recent. Your practitioner will review your surgical history and imaging before making any recommendation, and where necessary will liaise with your surgeon.

Yes, when properly indicated and administered by a trained practitioner, spinal decompression therapy is considered a safe, non-invasive treatment. The Chattanooga Triton DTS continuously monitors the force being applied and automatically adjusts if it detects resistance. As with any treatment, it is not suitable for everyone HOWEVER, your practitioner will conduct a thorough assessment before recommending it, and will review any imaging or scans relevant to your condition to confirm you are an appropriate candidate.

Most patients find the treatment comfortable and report little to no discomfort during the session. You will feel a gentle pulling sensation as the table applies traction to your spine, which many people describe as a relief rather than a strain. The force builds gradually at the start of each session and releases slowly at the end, giving your muscles time to adjust. If at any point you feel discomfort, you hold a patient stop switch that immediately pauses the treatment. Some patients experience mild muscle soreness after their first few sessions as their body adapts, akin to the muscle soreness you get from doing a new gym-workout! We refer to this as Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS). This is normal and typically settles quickly.

This depends on your specific condition, how long you have had symptoms, and how your body responds to treatment. A typical course involves between 12 and 20 sessions, usually scheduled two to three times per week over four to six weeks. Your practitioner will assess your progress throughout and adjust your program accordingly. Some patients notice improvement within the first few sessions, while others experience more gradual change over the course of the program. Sometimes we may refer you for post-decompression MRI’s, if clinically indicated, to determine your recovery progress.