Flexion Distraction Therapy
Flexion Distraction Therapy is a gentle, non-surgical treatment used to relieve pressure on the spine, reduce pain, and improve mobility—particularly in patients with disc injuries and spinal stenosis.
This technique uses a specialized treatment table to create controlled, rhythmic movement in the spine, helping to decompress affected areas and promote healing.
What is Flexion Distraction?
Flexion Distraction is a hands-on technique where the spine is carefully moved through a specific range of motion while the patient lies comfortably on a segmented table.
This controlled movement helps:
Reduce pressure within spinal discs
Improve joint mobility
Decrease nerve irritation
Enhance circulation to injured tissues
The treatment is slow, precise, and well tolerated, even by patients who are in significant pain.
Conditions Treated
Flexion Distraction is particularly effective for conditions involving disc pressure and nerve irritation, including:
Degenerative disc disease
Lumbar radiculopathy
Chronic low back pain
Facet joint irritation
This approach is often used when traditional high-velocity adjustments may not be appropriate or tolerated.
Why It Works for Disc Injuries
Disc injuries often involve increased pressure within the disc, which can lead to bulging, herniation, or nerve compression.
Flexion Distraction works by:
Creating negative pressure within the disc
Encouraging retraction of disc material
Reducing stress on surrounding structures
Improving nutrient exchange within the disc
This makes it one of the most effective conservative treatments for disc-related low back pain and sciatica.
Why It Works for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis involves narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress nerves and lead to pain, numbness, or weakness—especially with standing or walking.
Flexion Distraction helps by:
Gently opening the spinal canal
Reducing pressure on affected nerves
Improving tolerance to standing and walking
Decreasing inflammation and irritation
Many patients with stenosis find this approach significantly more comfortable than more aggressive treatments.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment is performed with the patient lying face down on a specialized table.
During the session:
The lower portion of the table moves in a controlled manner
Gentle traction and flexion are applied to the spine
Movements are slow and repetitive
There is no forceful thrusting
Most patients describe the treatment as relieving and comfortable.
Part of a Comprehensive Plan
Flexion Distraction is often combined with other treatments to improve outcomes, including:
Soft tissue therapy
Rehabilitation exercises
Activity and movement guidance
Care is individualized based on the patient’s condition and response to treatment.
When to Consider Flexion Distraction
This treatment may be appropriate if you are experiencing:
Persistent low back pain
Pain radiating into the leg (sciatica)
Symptoms worsened by standing or walking
Known disc injury or degeneration
Spinal stenosis diagnosis
Limited tolerance to traditional adjustments
About Dr. Joel Ardner
Dr. Joel Ardner utilizes Flexion Distraction Therapy as part of a targeted approach to treating spinal conditions, particularly disc-related issues and spinal stenosis.
Care is focused on reducing pain, improving function, and helping patients return to normal activity safely.
Patients are seen at Fabrizio Chiropractic & Physical Rehabilitation in Tiffin, Ohio.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are dealing with back pain, sciatica, or spinal stenosis, an evaluation can help determine if Flexion Distraction Therapy is appropriate for your condition.