Physiotherapy · Port Coquitlam
Spinal Decompression & Traction Table Therapy
Gentle, precisely controlled traction that takes pressure off your spinal discs and nerves — no surgery, no downtime.
Book NowWHO IS IT FOR?
Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people visit our Port Coquitlam clinic. If a compressed disc or an irritated nerve is making it hard to sit, sleep, work or stay active, spinal decompression, also called traction table therapy, may be a good fit. It is a gentle, non-surgical treatment that is often considered when rest, medication or exercise alone have not brought enough relief, or when you would like to explore conservative options before thinking about injections or surgery.
At Criterion Wellness, traction is provided by our physiotherapists as part of a complete, personalized plan, never as a one-size-fits-all treatment.
How Spinal Decompression Works
Your spine is a column of bones (vertebrae) separated by soft, shock-absorbing discs. Injury, posture, repetitive strain and everyday wear can squeeze those discs, causing them to bulge and crowd the nerves beside them.
On a traction table, a comfortable harness is fitted around your hips or a cradle supports your neck. The table then applies a slow, precisely measured stretch to the spine and releases it in cycles. This gentle pull:
- Creates space between the vertebrae and lowers pressure inside the disc
- Encourages bulging disc material to draw back, away from sensitive nerves
- Promotes the movement of fluid, oxygen and nutrients into the disc to support healing
- Relaxes tight, guarded muscles around the spine
Does It Hurt?
No. Most people find traction relaxing: a slow, steady stretch through the low back or neck. Your physiotherapist sets the force, angle and timing for your body and your condition, stays close by, and can adjust or stop the treatment at any moment.
Because it is non-invasive and drug-free, there is no downtime. You can return to your normal day right after your visit.
Conditions Treated:
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Sciatica (pain travelling into the hip or leg)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Pinched nerves in the neck or low back
- Spinal stenosis
- Facet joint irritation and spinal arthritis
- Chronic low back pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Muscle spasm and tension
- Back and neck pain after sports or motor vehicle injuries
- and more…
BENEFITS
Every body responds differently, but patients commonly tell us they notice:
- Less back, neck, arm or leg pain
- Reduced pressure on discs, joints and nerves
- Easier movement and better flexibility
- Less muscle tension and guarding
- Improved circulation to support tissue repair
- Better posture and comfort when sitting or standing
- A drug-free, non-surgical path back to daily activities
YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Every visit starts with a thorough physiotherapy assessment. Your physiotherapist will review your history, examine how your spine moves and decide whether traction is appropriate for you and your goals.
Decompression works best as part of a broader plan. Depending on what we find, yours may also include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, IMS / dry needling, laser therapy, shockwave therapy or massage therapy, along with education so you can stay in control of your recovery at home.
Traction is not suitable for everyone. Please tell us if you are pregnant, or have osteoporosis, a recent fracture, spinal surgery or implants, or another serious medical condition, so we can choose the safest option for you.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and avoid a heavy meal right before your visit. Bring any relevant imaging reports (X-ray or MRI) and a list of your medications if you have them.
No doctorโs referral is needed to see our physiotherapists, although some extended health plans ask for one, it is worth checking with your insurer first.
Assessment: Your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms and medical history and assess your spine to confirm that traction is right for you.
Set-up: You will lie comfortably on the traction table while a harness or neck cradle is fitted and the table is adjusted to your body.
Therapy: The table applies gentle cycles of stretch and release. Most people feel a mild, relieving pull. You can stop the treatment at any time.
You can go straight back to your day. Your physiotherapist may suggest gentle movement, heat or ice, and a few simple exercises to help the results last.
Many people notice a change within the first few sessions; your therapist will recommend a schedule and adjust your plan as you progress.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No. You can book directly with one of our physiotherapists. Some insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement, so please check with your provider.
Traction is provided as part of a physiotherapy visit, which is covered by most extended health plans. We offer direct billing to many insurers, and our physiotherapy services qualify for ICBC direct billing.
It depends on your condition and how long you have had it. After your assessment, your physiotherapist will outline a plan and review your progress regularly.
No. Traction is a slow, sustained stretch with no quick thrusts or โcrackingโ.
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HOURS
- MON-FRI: 9:00AM - 9:00PM
CONTACT US
HOURS
- MON-FRI: 9:00AM - 9:00PM
