Frequently asked questions

Non-surgical spinal decompression uses controlled, computer-guided cycles of gentle distraction and relaxation to reduce pressure through targeted areas of the spine.This creates changes in pressure within the spinal discs and gently mobilises the surrounding joints and tissues. The aim is to reduce mechanical loading and create an environment that may support movement of fluid and nutrients within the disc.At Casuarina Chiropractic, we use the Hill DT Spinal Decompression Table, allowing the treatment force, angle and other parameters to be tailored to the individual and the area of the spine being treated.

Most people describe spinal decompression as a gentle stretching or pulling sensation through the area being treated.The Hill DT gradually applies and releases the programmed force throughout the session rather than simply maintaining a continuous pull. Treatment settings are individually adjusted, and we monitor how you are responding throughout your care.

You’ll be comfortably positioned on the Hill DT table using specialised supports to allow us to target the appropriate area of your spine.The table then delivers a programmed series of controlled distraction and relaxation cycles using settings selected specifically for you.Lumbar decompression sessions are approximately 25 minutes, while cervical decompression sessions are approximately 20 minutes.

Yes. Spinal decompression isn’t something we recommend based on symptoms alone.Before treatment begins, Jane will take a detailed history, perform a clinical assessment and review relevant spinal imaging. This helps us understand what may be contributing to your symptoms, determine whether decompression is a reasonable option to consider, and identify anything that may make treatment unsuitable.If we don’t believe decompression is appropriate for you, we’ll tell you.

Generally, yes. We will usually need to review relevant spinal imaging before beginning a course of decompression.X-rays and MRI provide different information about the spine and can help us better understand the area being treated, as well as identify or rule out factors that may make decompression unsuitable.If you already have recent relevant imaging, let our team know when you book. If further imaging is clinically indicated, Jane can arrange an appropriate referral following your assessment. X-rays can generally be bulk billed through Medicare.

Spinal decompression may be considered for a range of lumbar and cervical spine presentations, including disc bulges and herniations, degenerative disc changes, sciatica, spinal stenosis, facet joint changes and persistent lower back or neck pain.A diagnosis alone doesn’t determine whether someone is suitable for decompression. Your symptoms, clinical findings, imaging, health history and individual circumstances all need to be considered.

While both involve applying distraction to the spine, spinal decompression using the Hill DT is a more controlled and customisable process.Rather than simply applying a continuous pulling force, the Hill DT uses computer-controlled cycles of distraction and relaxation. Treatment variables can be adjusted according to the spinal region being treated, your clinical presentation and how you respond.

Spinal decompression is generally provided as a course of care rather than a one-off treatment, but there is no single treatment schedule that is right for everyone.The frequency and number of sessions recommended will depend on factors such as your presentation, imaging findings, how long the problem has been present, your goals and how you respond to treatment.Your progress is reviewed throughout care, and recommendations can be modified if you aren’t responding as expected.

Research into non-surgical spinal decompression has reported favourable outcomes for some people with certain spinal and disc-related conditions, although results vary and the evidence continues to evolve.In practice, the important question isn’t simply whether spinal decompression “works” — it’s whether it is an appropriate option for your particular presentation.That’s why we assess each person carefully, review relevant imaging and monitor progress throughout care. No treatment can guarantee a particular outcome.Want to explore the research? We’ve included links to relevant studies on our website.

Some people report changes relatively early in their care, while for others progress is more gradual. Your response will depend on a range of factors, including your individual condition, how long it has been present and your overall health.We’re more interested in how you are progressing over time than promising a particular response after a single session. If you aren’t progressing as expected, your care should be reviewed rather than simply continuing unchanged.

Yes. Spinal decompression isn’t appropriate for everyone, which is why we assess suitability before beginning treatment.There are certain circumstances where decompression may not be recommended, including pregnancy, severe osteoporosis, significant vascular disease, or a body weight over 155 kg. Other medical conditions, previous spinal surgery or findings on your imaging may also need to be considered.Jane will review your health history, examination findings and relevant imaging before treatment begins. If there’s a reason decompression may not be appropriate or further assessment is needed, we’ll discuss this with you.

You don’t need to work that out yourself.Your initial assessment is designed to determine whether spinal decompression is a reasonable option to consider. Jane will review your history, examination findings and relevant imaging, explain what she finds, and discuss whether decompression (or another approach) may be appropriate.If we don’t think decompression is right for you, we’ll tell you.