Patients usually ask about spinal decompression when pain, stiffness, tissue irritation, nerve symptoms, or recovery challenges are not improving with basic care. At Muscle Restoration Therapy in Fort Collins, the team evaluates symptoms, movement, and goals before deciding whether spinal decompression or another non-invasive option is the right fit.
Spinal decompression focuses on reducing pressure and irritation around the spine so movement can feel less guarded. MRT pairs spinal decompression therapy with assessment and practical care planning instead of treating it as a one-size-fits-all solution.
Spinal decompression is a gentle, non-surgical back pain treatment that reduces pressure on the spine, improves mobility, and helps the body restore proper function.
At Muscle Restoration Therapy, we use the Back On Trac system — an advanced, multi-directional decompression device designed to support natural healing without medications or surgery.
Back pain often comes from compressed discs, irritated nerves, or instability in the spine.
Spinal decompression gently stretches and mobilizes the spine to:
Increase space between the vertebrae
Improve hydration and nutrient exchange in spinal discs
Reduce pressure on nerves
Restore mobility and flexibility
Support more efficient healing
The Back On Trac system uses comfortable, motorized, multi-directional movement (not just static traction) to help the spine move the way it was designed to.
Conditions Spinal Decompression Helps With
Many people in Fort Collins benefit from spinal decompression as part of their overall back pain relief protocol.
More specific conditions would be:
Herniated or bulging discs
Degenerative disc issues
Sciatica or nerve compression
Chronic low back pain
Facet joint irritation
Spinal stiffness
Postural strain
“Pinched nerve” sensations
Limited mobility caused by disc or joint compression
It’s completely non-invasive and works well for people who want alternatives to injections or surgery.
Traditional traction pulls the spine in one static direction.
Back On Trac provides dynamic, multi-plane decompression, which allows for:
Gentle extension and flexion
Side-to-side movement
Reduced muscle guarding
Better disc hydration
More natural spinal mobility
A comfortable, open design (no straps, no cages, no squeezing)
This makes the treatment easier to tolerate and more effective for a wider range of back conditions.
Together, these therapies support our broader Pain Management Fort Collins system by restoring muscle function and reducing inflammation.
Spinal decompression creates the space your back needs. Laser and SoftWave support what happens next.
→ Reduces pressure
→ Improves disc hydration
→ Helps nerves calm down
→ Restores mobility
→ Improves circulation
→ Supports tissue repair
→ Speeds recovery
→ Stimulates tissue regeneration
→ Reduces inflammation
→ Supports long-term healing
This multi-modality approach helps the spine recover more completely — and often more quickly — than using decompression alone.
Spinal decompression with Back On Trac is simple and comfortable.
1. Easy, Open Design
You sit back into a padded, reclining chair — no belts or restraints.
2. Guided Movement
The device gently moves your lower body through controlled motion patterns that stretch and decompress the spine.
3. Comfortable, Passive Treatment
Most people relax during the session and feel relief as pressure begins to release.
4. No Downtime
You can return to normal activities right after your appointment.
We often pair decompression with other supportive therapies based on your needs. Spinal decompression is one component of our broader Pain Management Fort Collins approach, which focuses on restoring proper muscle function and long-term stability.
Spinal decompression may be a good option if you:
Have chronic or recurring back pain
Want a non-surgical, alternative to more aggressive treatments
Have disc-related issues (herniation, bulging, degeneration)
Experience numbness, tingling, or radiating pain
Sit or stand for long periods
Feel compressed, stiff, or limited in movement
Have not found long-term relief from stretching or traditional care
If you’re dealing with persistent back pain, decompression can be a helpful piece of the overall solution.
The best starting point is an evaluation. MRT reviews your symptoms, history, movement, and goals so care is based on your body rather than a one-size-fits-all plan.
The first visit focuses on where symptoms show up, what aggravates them, and which non-invasive options may be appropriate. The team will explain the likely starting plan before care begins.
The number of visits varies by condition, severity, goals, and how your body responds. MRT will help you understand what progress should look like after the first evaluation.
Feel your best with Muscle Restoration Therapy.
Book a session today and experience the difference. Not sure if we treat your specific issue? Browse our conditions page or reach out below.
