Decompression therapy · Waimea, Hawai‘i
When back or radiating leg symptoms interrupt everyday life, a clear evaluation matters. Decompression therapy uses mechanical traction and may be considered as one part of a conservative care plan for selected patients.
Individual assessment. Clear goals. Ongoing review.
Decompression Therapy in Hawaii
At our clinic, decompression therapy refers to mechanical traction: a controlled pulling force applied to the spine. It is intended to temporarily alter spinal loading. It is different from surgical decompression.
Read the supporting sourceDisc herniation, a prolapsed or bulging disc, and disc sequestration can require different clinical decisions. An imaging finding alone does not determine treatment. Dr. Mizuba reviews your symptoms, neurological findings, history, and available imaging before considering traction.
A systematic review found short-term improvements in pain and disability in some studies when supine mechanical traction was added to physical therapy for lumbar radiculopathy. Those findings came from lower-quality studies; higher-quality studies of prone traction did not show significant additional benefit.
Read the supporting sourceIf appropriate, treatment is paired with clear goals and reassessment. Improvement should be judged by symptoms and function, not promises that a disc will be pulled back into place. A plan may also include exercise, activity guidance, or referral.
A plan informed by evidence
Bring relevant reports and tell us where you feel pain, tingling, or numbness, and which activities are difficult. We focus on whether mechanical traction is suitable for your specific situation and how it would fit with the rest of your care.
Evidence for lumbar traction is mixed and does not support a universal benefit for back pain. Some selected patients with radiating nerve-root symptoms may experience short-term improvement as part of a broader plan. Traction has not been shown to reliably reverse a herniated or sequestered disc, and it is not a substitute for an indicated surgical or specialist assessment.
Your visit, explained
Discuss symptoms, prior care, and imaging, with examination to check whether conservative treatment is appropriate.
If traction is suitable, the doctor explains positioning, the proposed treatment, and symptoms that should prompt stopping or reassessment.
Review changes in pain, function, and daily activity. Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms means the plan needs another look.
Appointments are arranged directly with our team. A visit request does not reserve a date or time.
A little clarity before you begin
No. Mechanical traction for spinal symptoms is different from compression garments or pneumatic compression used on the limbs.
No. Disc sequestration, significant neurological findings, or other conditions may require specialist assessment. An individual evaluation comes first.
New bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the groin or saddle area, or rapidly worsening leg weakness require urgent medical evaluation. Do not wait for a routine clinic visit.
Let’s discuss your symptoms and whether decompression therapy deserves a place in your care plan.
65-1206 Mamalahoa Hwy, Suite 3-212
Kamuela, HI 96743
For a closer look
This information is educational and does not replace an individual medical evaluation. Studies describe particular populations and protocols; results are not a promise of benefit for every patient. We will discuss suitability, alternatives, and risks before care.
