Chiropractic adjustments are intended to ease pain and increase spinal mobility. The flexion distraction adjustment technique allows the Chiropractor to access particular parts of the spine to apply a slow, comforting treatment.

What is Flexion Distraction?

The flexion distraction technique relies on the use of a special table. The overall goal of this flexion distraction treatment is to alleviate spinal pain through localized treatment and decompression which in turn, increases spinal mobility.

While other Chiropractic treatments target the spine in general, the specialized table provides the Chiropractor with access to particular sections within the spine. Applying gentle but deliberate force to these particular areas of the spine will help improve the health and function of spinal discs, and restore overall spinal mobility. So, this treatment is ideal for patients with pre-existing conditions, and those who suffer on-the-job injuries or automobile accidents. This Chiropractic adjustment technique not only relieves pain, but also comforts the patient.

How Flexion Distraction Affects Spinal Alignment

During each slow movement, the Chiropractor seeks to restore the spine to its ideal position. Through reducing the pressure on spinal discs and nerves, this Chiropractic adjustment technique seeks to improve circulation, nerve communication, and the the body’s overall range of motion. In doing so, flexion distraction eliminates any feelings of pain, while also improving the range of motion. Applying this pressure in a rhythmic and deliberate fashion is the best way to restore spinal alignment by increasing the disc height between vertebrae.

How is Flexion Distraction Treatment Performed?

Before carrying out a treatment, the Chiropractor will perform a full assessment of the patient. During this assessment, he will determine the source, the various locations, and a treatment plan. Upon discovering spinal issues such as disc bulges and herniations, the Chiropractor may use the flexion distraction treatment.

Flexion Distraction Table

First, the Chiropractor will ask the patient to lie face down on a flexion distraction table. This table is critical to flexion distraction, and enables the Chiropractor to move the patient’s spine in a direct and controlled manor. Maneuvering the body with this table will allow the Chiropractor to articulate different sections of the spine in an up/down, side to side motion, while also extending the spine length-wise.

Flexion Distraction Treatment

After positioning the patient for treatment, the Chiropractor will then begin the adjustment process. Rather than the quick, deep thrusts that are used in diversified adjustment, the flexion distraction technique delivers slow, deliberate motions. This creates pressure in certain areas and reduces pressure in others, which can allow the discs to move back to a more optimal position. Additionally, this adjustment technique distributes nutrients into the spinal discs.

To ensure patient comfort and the appropriate results, the Chiropractor will adjust his approach as needed throughout the treatment. Responding to both patient feedback and spinal reactions, level and location of pressure will be adjusted. In doing so, he can find the ideal treatment for all patients. Receiving consistent chiropractic care will help patients enjoy a natural, drug-free recovery.


Flexion Distraction FAQs

The flexion distraction Chiropractic adjustment technique has been a staple in spinal care for decades. After extensive research, Dr. Cox realized the value in manipulating the position of the spine for a closer, more dedicated treatment. He then implemented this treatment on patients in the early 1960s, and Chiropractors everywhere have used this technique ever since.

Unlike physical therapy and other more aggressive forms of treatment, Chiropractic is intended to be comforting to patients. The flexion distraction treatment is particularly soothing, as it is based around the idea that the addition of slow spinal motions are more effective than harsh, rapid bursts of pressure. Additionally, the Chiropractor communicates with the patient to ensure that the treatment does not cause pain.

In addition to restoring spinal alignment and eliminating back pain, the benefits of flexion distraction treatment may extend to other parts of the body. Because the spine is directly connected to the neck, flexion distraction may also ease neck pain. Leg pain that stems from spinal misalignment may also be eliminated. Chiropractic may also improve the immune system.

Because of its gentle nature as a form of Chiropractic adjustment, the flexion distraction treatment is ideal for people with high pain sensitivity. So, pregnant women and elderly patients in need of Chiropractic treatment often receive flexion distraction treatment. Based on other factors, patients with the following conditions may receive flexion distraction treatment:

  • Scoliosis
  • Arthritis
  • Back strain/strain/stiffness
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Bulging, ruptured or herniated disc
  • Sciatica
  • Neck pain

What Conditions Does the Flexion Distraction Technique Treat?

The flexion distraction method is gentle, and suitable for treating many conditions, including:

  • Patients with pre-existing spinal conditions
  • Car accident injuries
  • Vocational (on-the-job) injuries
  • Lower back pain
  • Arthritis
  • Scoliosis
  • Back sprain or strain
  • Leg pain
  • Sciatica
  • Herniated, ruptured or bulging discs

Belmore Chiropractic

By receiving consistent chiropractic treatment, and maintaining general back wellness, you can enjoy a pain-free lifestyle.

Contact our office today to schedule a chiropractic assessment and schedule an appointment.

(516) 208-6123