Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression for Low Back Pain, Sciatica, and Leg Pain

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek care—and one of the most disruptive to daily life. Whether it’s a dull ache after sitting, sharp pain with movement, or nerve pain that radiates into the hip or leg, spinal pain can limit work, exercise, and sleep.

At Boulder Sports Clinic, we offer non-surgical spinal decompression using the Hill DT Decompression Table to help relieve pressure on the spine, reduce nerve irritation, and support long-term healing—without surgery or injections.

What Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression?

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a specialized form of traction therapy designed to gently reduce compression within the spine. The goal is to decrease pressure on spinal discs and nerves while improving circulation to injured tissues.

Unlike basic traction devices, modern decompression tables—like the Hill DT—use computerized, controlled forces that adapt to the patient’s body and condition.

Conditions Treated with Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is commonly used for:

• Chronic or acute low back pain
• Sciatica (pain radiating into the hip, glute, or leg)
• Disc bulges or disc herniations
• Degenerative disc disease
• Facet joint irritation
• Nerve compression causing numbness, tingling, or weakness

Many patients come to us after trying rest, medications, or basic treatments—looking for a non-surgical option that actually addresses the cause of their pain.

How the Hill DT Decompression Table Works

The Hill DT Decompression Table is designed to deliver precise, repeatable decompression forces to the lumbar spine.

During a session, the table:

• Gently separates spinal segments
• Reduces pressure within the disc space
• Creates a negative pressure environment that may help discs rehydrate
• Relieves compression on irritated nerve roots

The treatment is comfortable, controlled, and tailored to each patient’s body, tolerance, and condition.

Relief for Both Aging & Active Patients

Aging or Degenerative Conditions

For aging patients, spinal decompression can help manage:

• Disc thinning and loss of hydration
• Arthritis-related spinal compression
• Chronic stiffness and nerve irritation

Reducing compression often leads to improved mobility, less nerve pain, and better tolerance for daily activities like walking, standing, or sleeping.

Younger & Active Patients

For younger patients and athletes, decompression can:

• Reduce disc stress from repetitive loading
• Support recovery from training-related injuries
• Address sciatica or leg pain without injections or surgery

This makes decompression an excellent option for people who want to stay active while healing.

Why Decompression Alone Isn’t Always Enough

While spinal decompression can be powerful, it works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Pain often develops due to a combination of:

• Joint restriction
• Muscle tightness or imbalance
• Poor movement patterns
• Weakness or lack of stability

That’s why at Boulder Sports Clinic, decompression is rarely used in isolation.

Combining Decompression with Chiropractic & Physical Therapy

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments help restore motion to restricted joints, allowing the spine to move more normally and respond better to decompression.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy addresses:

• Core and hip strength
• Postural control
• Movement mechanics
• Long-term spinal stability

By improving strength and function, PT helps ensure the pain relief gained from decompression lasts.

A Smarter, More Complete Approach to Pain Relief

When spinal decompression is combined with chiropractic care and physical therapy, patients often experience:

• Faster pain reduction
• Improved nerve symptoms
• Better mobility
• Lower risk of recurrence

This integrated approach allows us to treat both the source of compression and the support system around the spine.

Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Right for You?

You may be a good candidate if you experience:

• Low back pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Sciatica or leg pain
• Pain with sitting, bending, or standing
• Disc-related symptoms confirmed by imaging or exam

A thorough evaluation helps determine whether decompression is appropriate and how it fits into your overall care plan.

Experience Decompression at Boulder Sports Clinic

At Boulder Sports Clinic, we combine advanced technology like the Hill DT Decompression Table with hands-on care and individualized rehabilitation to help patients move better and feel better—without surgery.

👉 Schedule an evaluation today to see if non-surgical spinal decompression is right for you.

‍

About the Author

Dr. Steve Brown, DC, MS, CCSP® is a Doctor of Chiropractic and co-owner of Boulder Sports Clinic, with over 10 years of experience treating athletes in Boulder, from professional and collegiate competitors to weekend warriors and active adults. His background includes working with movie stars, serving as a collegiate team doctor, practicing in high school athletic training rooms, and providing on-field medical coverage for tournaments, triathlons, and high school sports.

Dr. Steve specializes in sports chiropractic care, functional movement analysis, and rehabilitation-based treatment to help patients recover efficiently, prevent future injury, and return to the activities they love. As an athlete himself, he understands the demands of training and performance and brings that perspective into every treatment plan.

‍