Can Spinal Decompression Help with Degenerative Disc Disease?

A guide for readers in Burlington, Ontario & the surrounding regionIntroduction

If you’re living with degenerative disc disease (DDD), you know the impact it can have—chronic low back pain, stiffness, even radiating symptoms. The good news: caring for your spine doesn’t always need to mean surgery. At Burlington Spinal Decompression under the care of Dr. Brad Deakin, we specialise in a gentle, non-surgical approach known as spinal decompression therapy. In this blog we’ll explain how DDD works, what the research says about decompression, and why Burlington residents may find it to be a viable option.

What is degenerative disc disease?

“Degenerative disc disease” is somewhat of a misnomer—it isn’t necessarily a disease, but rather a description of the natural deterioration (wear and tear) of the intervertebral discs. Over time, discs can lose height, hydration, and resilience; the adjacent vertebral end-plates and facet joints can also change. These changes may contribute to low back pain, reduced mobility and nerve irritation.

Why it matters in Burlington / Ontario

As we age, the changes in discs become more common—many people in their 40s and 50s begin to feel the effects.
In a community like Burlington, with a mix of active lifestyles, desk-jobs, weekend sports and commuting, the spine gets its share of mechanical stress.
When disc degeneration leads to nerve involvement or chronic pain, it becomes more than just “wear and tear”—it impacts quality of life, productivity and enjoyment.

How does spinal decompression therapy work?

Spinal decompression therapy (sometimes called non-surgical spinal decompression, motorised decompression) uses a specialised table or harness system to apply a gentle, targeted distraction or “pull” to the spine. The idea is to:

reduce pressure on the disc or nerve root,
create a negative pressure that may encourage re-hydration and nutrient flow into the disc, and
allow the surrounding muscles and ligaments to relax and recover.

At Burlington Spinal Decompression, under Dr Brad Deakin, we combine on-site x-rays, two state of the art nerve scans and a personalized rehabilitation program to identify the most appropriate disc levels, set the decompression parameters, and monitor progress.

What does the research say?

Evidence for and against decompression

Supportive findings

A 2007 retrospective cohort study found that after a 6-week motorised non-surgical spinal decompression protocol, patients had a statistically significant decrease in pain (from 6.2 to 1.6 on a 0-10 scale) and an increase in disc height (from 7.5 mm to 8.8 mm) in lumbar disc herniation and discogenic low back pain cases. (Arthritis & Rheumatism? etc) PMC
A more recent RCT (2022) published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders found that adding non-surgical decompression to routine physical therapy improved pain and function vs physical therapy alone in patients with lumbar radiculopathy. BioMed Central
Some case-series report that disc volume reduction (on imaging) and improved function follow decompression protocols. PMC+1

Why consider it at Burlington Spinal Decompression with Dr Brad Deakin?

Here in Burlington, you deserve an option that:

Focuses on your individual spine and underlying mechanics—we don’t just treat symptoms.
Incorporates on-site x-rays so Dr Deakin can assess disc height, alignment, degeneration patterns and determine if you’re a good candidate.
Offers a tailored treatment plan: decompression sessions scheduled, progress reviewed, combined with rehabilitation and lifestyle guidance.
Notes that we’ve had patients see results in as little as 2- 4 weeks—many report reduced pain, improved movement, and better sleep.
Provides local care — convenient for Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton region—no need to travel far.

Who is a good candidate — and who may not be?

Ideal candidates:

Adults with documented degenerative disc changes (via imaging) and corresponding clinical symptoms (low back pain, possible leg symptoms) but who wish to avoid surgery.
Patients motivated to follow through with treatment sessions and adjunctive rehabilitation (core strengthening, postural correction, movement education).
People seeking a non-invasive alternative to long-term medication or surgical consultation.

What to expect in treatment at Burlington Spinal Decompression

Initial consultation, assessment of your history, symptoms, imaging (x-rays or MRI if available).
On-site x-rays to evaluate disc height loss, alignment, degeneration pattern—these help personalise the decompression parameters.
Custom care plan: e.g., 20-30 sessions of decompression, combined with rehabilitative exercise, manual therapy and lifestyle guidance.
Progress reviews: Pain/function tracked (e.g., via Oswestry Disability Index or NPRS), range of motion, disc height (if follow-up imaging is indicated).
Expectations around timing: Many patients see meaningful improvements in 3-4 weeks—reduced pain, improved activity tolerance, better sleep. Full course often spans 6-8 weeks, but will vary by individual.
Lifestyle support: maintaining spine health matters—core strength, posture, ergonomic work setups (especially given many Burlington residents work or study from home or commute), weight management, movement habits.

How this fits within current guideline-based care

While decompression therapy is not singled out as a “must-do” in every guideline, the approach we take at Burlington Spinal Decompression aligns with the wider evidence-based culture of care. For example:

WHO’s 2023 guideline emphasises non-surgical, person-centred care for chronic primary low back pain: structured education, exercise, manual therapy are core. World Health Organization+1
NICE NG59 (2020) emphasises exercise programmes, self-management and stratified care pathways, but does not recommend routine traction. NICE
Our clinic’s approach is consistent with these guidelines—decompression is used as part of a comprehensive, conservative care plan, not as an isolated or “quick-fix” solution.

Addressing common questions

Q1: Can I expect results in 2- 4 weeks?
Yes—while individual outcomes vary, many patients at the clinic report significant improvement within 4 weeks of starting the plan: reduced pain, better mobility, improved sleep.

Q2: Is decompression safe?
Yes when done by qualified clinicians with proper assessment. Non-surgical decompression is generally low-risk compared to surgery. That said, patient selection and monitoring are crucial.

Q3: Will it fix the degeneration forever?
Degenerative changes are part of aging. What decompression aims to do is reduce the mechanical stress, improve disc health environment, alleviate nerve irritation and improve function. Ongoing lifestyle and movement habits remain important.

Q4: What if my MRI shows advanced degeneration?
Even in advanced cases, decompression can assist in reducing pain and improving function, but the care plan may need to be modified. Dr Deakin will determine suitability.

Why Burlington Viewers Should Act Now

Living with disc-related back pain can limit weekend hikes along the Niagara Escarpment or family outings in Burlington.
Addressing the issue early often yields better outcomes—less chronic wear means better recovery.
As a local provider, Burlington Spinal Decompression under Dr Brad Deakin offers convenience, targeted care, and compassionate support.

Final Thoughts

Degenerative disc disease doesn’t have to mean resigning yourself to constant pain or jumping straight to surgery. Non-surgical spinal decompression—when delivered thoughtfully, with proper assessment, imaging, and tailored care— is proven to be a very effective tool for many people in Burlington and beyond. At the same time, it is not a magic bullet; it works best as part of a broader conservative strategy, including exercise, movement education, healthy lifestyle and supportive manual therapy.

If you’re suffering from disc degeneration and are exploring non-surgical options, we invite you to reach out to Burlington Spinal Decompression to book your assessment with Dr Brad Deakin. Let’s take steps — together — towards a stronger spine, less pain and more of the active life you deserve.

Contact us today and start your path toward recovery.

References

World Health Organization. (2023). WHO guideline for non-surgical management of chronic primary low back pain in adults in primary and community care settings. Geneva: WHO. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240081789 World Health Organization+1
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2020). Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management (NG59). London: NICE. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng59 NICE+1
Arumugam, N., & Midha, D. (2022). Efficacy of spinal decompression therapy in individuals with lumbar disc herniation. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Journal. scientificliterature.org
Kim, H. Y., et al. (2023). Effect of nonsurgical spinal decompression on intensity of pain and disc volume. PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9553669/ PMC
Vanti, C., Saccardo, K., Panizzolo, A., Turone, L., & Pillastrini, P. (2023). The effects of the addition of mechanical traction to physical therapy on low back pain? A systematic review with meta-analysis. Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Turcica, 57(1):3-16. PMC+1
(Additional sources cited in-text as appropriate.)

Burlington Spinal Decompression: Where to find us & how to start

Burlington Spinal Decompression (Dr. Brad Deakin)
Address: 1‑3350 Fairview St, Burlington, ON L7N 3L5
Phone: (289) 337‑9969

We provide on‑site digital X‑rays, advanced nerve scans, and 4‑Dimensional decompression with individualized chiropractic‑led care plans to resolve the underlying issue—so you can get back to what you love. burlingtonspinaldecompression.ca+1

Ready to get started? Book your initial exam today—our team will review your imaging and map a plan to herniated disc relief that fits your schedule and goals. burlingtonspinaldecompression.ca