Spinal Decompression in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Patient receiving spinal decompression therapy to reduce pressure and support lower back recovery

Spinal Decompression Therapy at Carpe Diem

When a disc bulges or herniates, it can press on nearby nerves and cause pain in your back, neck, or down your leg. Spinal decompression is a gentle, non-surgical treatment that takes pressure off those discs and nerves, giving them room to calm down and heal.

Our chiropractors offer spinal decompression at our Fort Lauderdale and Plantation offices for back pain, sciatica, and disc-related neck pain.

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Patient receiving spinal decompression therapy on traction table in chiropractic clinic.

How Spinal Decompression Works

During spinal decompression, you lie comfortably on a specialized table while a harness gently pulls on your spine in slow, controlled cycles of stretching and relaxing. This creates a small amount of space between the vertebrae, which can reduce pressure on discs and pinched nerves. It also helps draw water and nutrients back into the disc.

Our experienced chiropractors use advanced decompression techniques to gently stretch the spine, reduce nerve compression, and promote long-term recovery.

Every patient’s condition is unique, which is why we personalize each spinal decompression session to your specific needs and comfort level. Whether you’re struggling with herniated discs, sciatica, or chronic back pain, our mission is simple: help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.

1. Carpe Diem Chiropractic provider assisting a patient during spinal decompression therapy.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Spinal Decompression: Benefits & Conditions It Treats

Spinal decompression is designed for pain that comes from the discs and the nerves around them. We commonly use it for:

Not sure if decompression is right for your condition? We’ll let you know during your consultation.

A chiropractor guides a patient through a cervical traction exercise using wall-mounted resistance bands.

How We Treat Using Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is a non-invasive therapy designed to relieve pressure on the spine and alleviate pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. At Carpe Diem Chiropractic, we use spinal decompression to gently stretch the spine, creating space between the vertebrae and promoting the flow of oxygen, water, and nutrients to damaged discs. This process helps to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural healing process, offering an effective solution for those seeking relief from chronic back or neck pain without surgery.

Spinal decompression is an effective solution for managing chronic back and neck pain caused by conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. By gently stretching the spine, this non-invasive therapy helps relieve pressure on the spinal discs and nerves, reducing pain and promoting healing. For individuals suffering from long-term discomfort, spinal decompression at Carpe Diem Chiropractic offers a safe and targeted way to improve mobility, decrease inflammation, and provide lasting relief without the need for surgery or medication.

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Spinal Decompression for Active Adults

Athletes often experience spinal strain from repetitive movements and intense physical activity, leading to issues like bulging discs or sciatica. Spinal decompression therapy can help alleviate these conditions by gently stretching the spine and reducing pressure on nerves and discs. This treatment not only helps athletes recover from injuries but also enhances overall spinal health, promoting better flexibility and range of motion. Learn more about our Sports and Active Recovery care.

Chiropractor providing hands-on massage treatment to a patient at Carpe Diem Chiropractic.

Treatments to Explore Alongside Decompression

At our Plantation and Fort Lauderdale clinics, spinal decompression works hand-in-hand with a range of complementary treatments designed to relieve pressure, improve spinal alignment, and support long-term recovery. These additional therapies enhance the effects of decompression by reducing muscle tension, improving mobility, and helping your body heal more effectively.

Every patient’s condition is different, which is why we combine spinal decompression with targeted treatments that address nerve compression, disc-related pain, chronic tightness, and restricted movement. Whether you’re dealing with herniated discs, sciatica, or long-standing back pain, our integrated approach ensures you receive well-rounded care that helps you move better, feel stronger, and stay pain-free.

We offer a full selection of services related to spinal decompression that support spinal health, improve function, and enhance long-term results, including:

Hands-on spinal treatment to improve back mobility and reduce tension

Chiropractic Care

See how chiropractic care can help you move and feel your best.

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Guided wall stretch and mobility exercise to improve balance, flexibility, and lower body control

Physical Therapy

Learn how physical therapy can rebuild strength and restore motion.

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Hands-on upper back and neck treatment to reduce tension and improve mobility

Massage Therapy

See how massage therapy can ease tension and support recovery.

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Hands-on spinal treatment to improve back mobility and reduce tension

Therapeutic Exercise

Find out how targeted exercise can help you move with confidence.

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Meet Dr. Barak Meraz, DC, Founder of Carpe Diem Chiropractic

Dr. Barak Meraz, founder and lead chiropractor at Carpe Diem Chiropractic

Dr. Barak Meraz, DC

Board Certified Chiropractor | Founder and Lead Chiropractor, Carpe Diem Chiropractic

Dr. Barak Meraz discovered his passion for chiropractic care as a year-round high school athlete. At 14, a visit to his father’s chiropractic appointment set his path, and he went on to graduate Cum Laude from Life University in Marietta, Georgia.

He gained invaluable experience at a prominent chiropractic office, became an Olympic Wellness Adviser, and refined his focus on patient education and spine corrective care while serving patients in New York City.

In 2014, Dr. Meraz fulfilled his dream of founding his own practice in Fort Lauderdale. His dedication to spinal health led to a second Carpe Diem Chiropractic clinic in Plantation, making his care accessible to more people seeking pain relief and lasting well-being.

Read Dr. Barak’s full bio

Dr. Stefania Sobrero, chiropractor

Dr. Stefania Sobrero

Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Stefania Sobrero is a chiropractor with a personal passion for sports and injury prevention. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from Nova Southeastern University and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Keiser University. Whether you are a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or recovering from an injury, she combines manual adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and therapeutic exercise to relieve pain, improve mobility, and help prevent future injuries.

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Dr. Carly Lutz, chiropractor

Dr. Carly Lutz

Doctor of Chiropractic

After collegiate sports injuries left her with back pain and migraines, Dr. Carly Lutz turned to healthcare. She earned her Bachelor’s in Health Science from Towson University and her Doctor of Chiropractic, Magna Cum Laude, from Life University. She focuses on chronic pain, the cervical spine, and migraines and headaches, using Full Spine, Thompson, Gonstead, Suboccipital, and Activator techniques. She is also certified in physical therapy.

Read Dr. Carly’s full bio

Dr. Rafael Novoa, chiropractor

Dr. Rafael Novoa

Doctor of Chiropractic

Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Rafael Novoa discovered his passion for chiropractic care at 10 years old after his very first adjustment. A lifelong soccer player, he understands firsthand the importance of movement, recovery, and performance. Whether he is working with athletes or patients looking to improve their everyday quality of life, his goal is to help each person move better, feel stronger, and live healthier.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect during my first spinal decompression session?

During your first session, the therapist will review your medical history, assess your pain and mobility, and explain how spinal decompression can help. You will then be comfortably positioned on a decompression table where gentle traction will be applied to your spine to relieve pressure on your discs and nerves.

How does spinal decompression work?

Spinal decompression uses a specialized traction table to stretch the spine gently. This creates negative pressure within the spinal discs, helping to relieve pain by reducing pressure on nerves and allowing oxygen, water, and nutrients to flow into damaged discs for faster healing.

Is spinal decompression safe?

Yes, spinal decompression is a non-invasive and safe therapy when performed by a trained professional. It relieves pain without surgery, and most patients experience little to no discomfort during the treatment.

How many spinal decompression sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your condition and treatment goals. Most patients see significant improvements after 6-10 sessions, but your therapist will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your progress.

Do I need a referral for spinal decompression?

No, a referral is not typically required to start spinal decompression therapy. You can contact Carpe Diem Chiropractic directly to schedule your consultation.

How long does a typical spinal decompression session last?

A typical spinal decompression session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your treatment plan and the condition being treated.

Will spinal decompression be painful?

Spinal decompression is generally not painful. Most patients find the treatment relaxing, and any discomfort is minimal. You may feel a gentle stretching sensation during the session, but the procedure is designed to be comfortable.

What should I wear to a spinal decompression appointment?

It’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. You’ll be positioned on the decompression table, so clothing that doesn’t restrict your body is ideal.

Can spinal decompression help with sciatica?

Yes, spinal decompression is highly effective in treating sciatica by relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve caused by bulging or herniated discs. Spinal decompression helps reduce pain and improve mobility in the lower back and legs.

How does spinal decompression differ from chiropractic care?

Spinal decompression relieves pressure in the spinal discs and nerves, while chiropractic care addresses spinal alignment and joint health. Both therapies complement each other by promoting overall spinal health and providing a more comprehensive approach to pain relief.

Can spinal decompression help with migraines or tension headaches?

Spinal decompression can help if migraines or tension headaches are related to spinal issues, such as disc problems or nerve compression. Relieving pressure on the spine can reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

Is spinal decompression safe during pregnancy?

Spinal decompression is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to the positioning required on the table and the changes in spinal health during pregnancy. Your therapist can recommend alternative therapies.

Book Your Complimentary Consultation

Wondering if spinal decompression is right for your back or neck? Start with a complementary consultation with one of our chiropractors to review your clinical history and any imaging you have, and let you know whether decompression, chiropractic care, or a combination is the best fit. If we can’t help, we’ll refer you to someone who can.

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