Spinal Decompression Therapy in Bartlett, TN
Gentle, computer-controlled traction on the Triton 6M to ease disc pressure and nerve pain.
Spinal Decompression Therapy for Disc Pain
Every decompression plan is designed and supervised by Dr. Jared Worthington, DC, who holds a certification in spinal decompression therapy and is a Logan University College of Chiropractic graduate. Dr. Worthington reviews your history, exam and X-rays first, then tells you plainly whether decompression is a good fit for your disc.
The Challenge
When Disc Pain Points to Spinal Decompression
Disc pain has a way of taking over the day. Sitting through a drive down Stage Road becomes a chore, bending to tie your shoes sends a sharp catch through your low back, and sleep turns into a search for any position that does not ache. That kind of back pain often starts in a disc. For some people the pain barely shows up in the back at all. Instead it burns, tingles or goes numb down one leg or into an arm, because a bulging disc is pressing on a nearby nerve root.
Spinal decompression addresses the mechanical side of that problem. Slow, repeated cycles of traction and relaxation lower the pressure inside the disc, which may help the bulging material draw inward and give irritated nerves more room. Many patients notice less radiating pain as the plan progresses. We often pair it with chiropractic adjustments in Bartlett, TN and simple home care, like our guide to stretches for lower back pain.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
How Gentle Traction Unloads a Disc
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses a motorized, computer-controlled table to apply gentle traction to the lower back or neck for disc-related pain. We use the Triton 6M by Chattanooga, and powered traction tables like it are FDA-regulated medical devices. The NIAMS notes most back pain improves without surgery.
You lie fully clothed in a padded harness while the table slowly pulls and releases in timed cycles. This lowers pressure inside the disc, which may ease nerve root irritation. Most find it relaxing, and relief builds across a series of visits.
Treatment Timeline
What We Treat
Spinal Decompression Treatment Areas
Disc and Nerve Related Pain
Herniated Disc
Lowers disc pressure so bulging or herniated material may draw inward
Sciatica
Aims to ease nerve root pressure behind pain that travels down the leg
Degenerative Disc
Supports fluid exchange in worn, thinning discs of the low back or neck
Low Back Pain
Unloads irritated lumbar discs for many patients with lasting back pain
Neck Pain
Cervical decompression for disc-related neck pain and arm symptoms
Pinched Nerve
Creates more room for compressed nerves that cause tingling or numbness
Key Advantages
Benefits of Spinal Decompression
Non-Surgical and Drug-Free
- 01
No Surgery Needed
A conservative option many patients try before injections or surgery
- 02
Medication-Free
Targets disc pressure mechanically instead of masking pain with pills
- 03
Zero Downtime
Most patients drive themselves home and return to work the same day
- 04
Precise Control
The Triton 6M sets traction force and angle to your spine and comfort
- 05
Neck or Low Back
One table treats both cervical and lumbar disc problems
- 06
Builds on Other Care
Pairs well with adjustments, laser therapy and corrective exercise
Spinal Decompression vs. Alternatives
Not sure where to start, I was referred here by my physical therapist and was honestly pretty skeptical at first. But it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience. Everyone is supportive and genuinely cares about your well-being. Dr. Worthington brings incredible energy and passion, and it’s clear he truly cares about helping you make real progress. I’ve had two back surgeries, and now on a third journey through back pain. After being adjusted and traction, I’m already noticing significant improvements. For the first time in a while, I feel like I’m starting to get my life back. A special shout out to Kayln, she’s incredibly friendly and takes customer service to a new level. Thank you for being so accommodating with my schedule.
Absolutely amazing experience at this chiropractor office! From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable. The office itself is clean, organized, and has such a positive atmosphere. A huge thank you to Dr. Jared for providing outstanding care and making the entire experience feel personal and professional. He took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the visit. You can truly tell he cares about his patients and wants the best for them. Also, Michelle and Kalyn at the front desk was incredible — so kind, helpful, and attentive from start to finish. She made scheduling and check-in easy and stress-free and always had a friendly attitude. If you’re looking for a chiropractor office with amazing staff, excellent care, and a welcoming environment, I highly recommend this place!
I love every experience I have at Worthington Chiropractic. All of the staff work together to make sure every patient’s needs are met. I am especially thankful for Kalyn for her patience with my daughter when she comes with me. They are a family friendly business. 💗
I was at my wits end with hip pain. I was informed about how great Dr. Worthington was, and that was absolutely true!! The ladies at the front desk Michelle and Kaylin, were so very sweet, kind, and very helpful. I had NEVER been to a chiropractor before but I trust Dr. Worthington and getting my hip corrected. I highly recommend the office!!!
Dr Worthington is amazing. He is so knowledgeable and explains everything so thoroughly. I instantly felt safe and comfortable in his care. I trust him and his staff. They are kind, patient and very accommodating with my schedule so i can get in and out before work. I’m so glad The Joint Clinic recommended me here!!!
Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Finding the Right Path to Relief
Ideal Candidates for Spinal Decompression Therapy
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Adults with a herniated or bulging disc in Bartlett, TN
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People with sciatica or leg pain that follows a nerve path
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Patients living with degenerative disc disease
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Those with disc-related neck pain or a pinched nerve
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Anyone who wants to try conservative care before injections or surgery
Who Should Wait or Avoid Spinal Decompression Therapy
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Pregnancy
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Spinal fracture, severe osteoporosis or bone infection
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Spinal tumors or cancer involving the spine
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Spinal fusion hardware or other surgical implants in the area
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Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Your Experience
What Happens During Spinal Decompression
Step-by-Step Process
- 01
Exam and X-Rays
Dr. Worthington reviews your history, performs a full exam and takes on-site X-rays if needed.
- 02
Table Setup
You lie clothed on the Triton 6M while a padded harness is fitted around your pelvis or neck.
- 03
Decompression
The table runs slow pull-and-release cycles at a force and angle Dr. Worthington sets for you.
- 04
Supporting Care
Your plan may add adjustments, cold laser therapy or corrective exercise to support the disc.
- 05
Progress Checks
Dr. Worthington rechecks your symptoms along the way and adjusts the plan as you improve.
Safety Information
Spinal Decompression Side Effects and Safety
What to Know
Spinal decompression is generally well tolerated when patients are screened carefully. The most common reactions are mild and short-lived: muscle soreness in the low back or neck, a stretched or tired feeling in the treated area, and some stiffness the day after a session. These usually settle within a day or two and often fade as your body adapts over the first couple of weeks.
Less often, leg or arm symptoms may briefly increase after early sessions, or a mild headache may follow neck decompression. Tell us right away if anything feels worse. Dr. Worthington adjusts traction force to your comfort, and the table can be stopped at any time. Serious problems are rare because conditions such as fracture, severe osteoporosis, spinal tumors and aortic aneurysm are ruled out before treatment begins. If your symptoms point to something that needs medical care, we will refer you to the right provider.
Investment
Spinal Decompression Cost in Bartlett
Pricing and Payment Options
How Much Does Spinal Decompression Cost in Bartlett?
The cost of spinal decompression depends on how many sessions your disc needs, whether we are treating your neck or low back, and whether your plan adds cold laser therapy or corrective exercise in Bartlett, TN. Most patients complete a series of visits rather than a single session, so we explain the full plan and its cost after your exam, before you commit to anything.
Your First Visit
Your first visit includes a consultation, a full chiropractic exam, X-rays if needed and your first adjustment. It is the simplest way to find out whether decompression is right for you.
Flexible Payment Options
- Cherry - flexible monthly payment plans
- CareCredit - healthcare financing for your treatment plan
Book an appointment with our Bartlett, TN office or call (901) 519-7777. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM.
The Worthington Difference
Why Choose Worthington Chiropractic for Spinal Decompression in Bartlett, TN
Bartlett's Family-Style Clinic
Certified Provider
Dr. Worthington holds a certification in spinal decompression therapy
Triton 6M Table
Computer-controlled cervical and lumbar decompression in one table
On-Site X-Ray
Imaging in our Bartlett office helps guide your decompression plan
Trusted Locally
2025 Memphis Most Award and nearly 300 five-star Google reviews
Gentle Disc Technique
Cox Flexion Distraction, a low-force option for sensitive discs
Financing Available
Cherry and CareCredit financing available for your care plan
Common Questions
Spinal Decompression FAQs
Your Questions Answered
How much does spinal decompression cost in Bartlett, TN?
The cost depends on how many sessions your plan needs and which area we treat. After your exam, Dr. Worthington explains the recommended plan and its cost up front. Your first visit includes a consultation, full exam, X-rays if needed and a first adjustment. Cherry and CareCredit financing are available.
How long does a spinal decompression session take?
A typical session on the Triton 6M takes about 20 to 30 minutes on the table. Plan a little extra time for your first visit, which includes a consultation, exam and X-rays if needed. Many patients read, listen to music or simply rest while the table runs its cycles.
Does spinal decompression hurt?
Spinal decompression should not hurt. Most patients describe a gentle, gradual stretch, and many find it relaxing enough to doze off. Traction force starts low and increases only as you tolerate it. Some people feel mild soreness after early sessions, which usually fades within a day or two.
How soon will I feel results from spinal decompression?
Many patients notice early changes within the first few weeks of care, such as easier mornings or less leg pain. Fuller improvement usually builds by the end of a completed plan. Discs heal slowly, so results vary from person to person, and Dr. Worthington tracks your progress along the way.
How many spinal decompression sessions will I need?
Most people need a series of visits spread over several weeks rather than a single session. The exact number depends on your condition, how long you have had symptoms and how your body responds. Dr. Worthington recommends a plan after your exam and adjusts it as you improve.
Is spinal decompression better than a chiropractic adjustment?
Neither is better in every case; they do different jobs. Decompression focuses on lowering pressure inside a disc, while an adjustment improves joint motion and alignment. Many disc patients do best with both. Dr. Worthington also uses Cox Flexion Distraction, a gentle disc-friendly adjusting technique, when it suits your spine.
Who is a good candidate for spinal decompression?
Good candidates are usually adults with disc-related pain, such as a herniated or bulging disc, sciatica, degenerative disc disease or a pinched nerve. It is not appropriate during pregnancy or with fractures, severe osteoporosis, spinal tumors or fusion hardware. Your exam and X-rays help confirm whether decompression fits your situation.
Can spinal decompression help neck pain?
Yes, the Triton 6M can provide cervical decompression for disc-related neck pain. A padded harness supports your head and neck while the table applies gentle traction. It may help when neck pain comes with arm tingling or numbness from an irritated nerve. Dr. Worthington checks for red flags before starting neck treatment.
Can spinal decompression help me avoid back surgery?
It may help some patients, but no one can promise it. Many people with disc problems improve with conservative care and never need surgery. Decompression is a reasonable option to try first for many disc cases. If you have progressive weakness or bowel or bladder changes, we will refer you for urgent medical care.
Do I need an MRI before spinal decompression?
Not always. Many patients start with a consultation, exam and on-site X-rays in our Bartlett office. If you already have MRI or CT reports, bring them to your first visit. When your symptoms or exam suggest that advanced imaging is needed, Dr. Worthington will explain why and help arrange a referral.
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 8AM to 6PM
- Phone
- (901) 519-7777
Ready to Feel Better?
Schedule Your Appointment
References
- Apfel et al., BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. (2010). Restoration of disk height through non-surgical spinal decompression is associated with decreased discogenic low back pain in a retrospective cohort study. PMID: 20615252.
- Vanti et al., Physical Therapy. (2021). A systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of mechanical traction for people with lumbar radiculopathy. PMID: 33382419.
- Vanti et al., Acta Orthopaedica et Traumatologica Turcica. (2023). A meta-analysis assessed whether adding mechanical traction to physical therapy benefits people with low back pain. PMID: 36939359.
- Adar et al., Cureus. (2024). A study compared traditional motorized traction with non-surgical spinal decompression added to conventional physiotherapy. PMID: 39318658.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2023). Back pain overview, including causes, diagnosis and conservative treatment options.