Back pain is caused by a myriad of different factors, and treatment options are similarly numerous. You can get a massage, a steroid injection, or have surgery to correct your back pain. Previously we talked about back bracing when it comes to spine pain. Today, we’d like to focus on a specific type of belt known as a decompression belt. In this blog we are going to talk about spinal decompression belts and whether or not they are a good option for relieving back pain.

What is a Decompression Belt?

A decompression belt is a brace that you place around your lower back. The belt inflates and expands, gently stretching your back in the process. The goal with a decompression belt is to relieve back pain by gently pulling the vertebrae, thereby relieving pressure on compressed nerves in the spine.

By function, the decompression belt is only meant to be useful in treating back pain caused by pinched nerves. Other forms of back pain likely will not be impacted by the decompression belt.

Can a Decompression Belt help Reduce Back Pain?

Decompression belts can lead to some pain relief, but only in patients whose pain is caused by a pinched nerve or bulging disc. Other spinal conditions may not be impacted at all by a decompression belt. Even if a decompression belt offers you some pain relief, it will more than likely be short-term pain relief. Once the belt is removed, the spine will return to its original position and impinge the nerves again.

If your back pain is nerve related, the best long term solution is often a minimally invasive surgical procedure such as a total disc replacement or a spinal fusion. Talk to your doctor about the treatment options available to you before you make a decision about your care.

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