Flexion Distraction Therapy

What Is Flexion Distraction Therapy?

Flexion Distraction Therapy (FDT) is a gentle, non-thrust chiropractic technique specifically designed to treat spinal conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, facet joint dysfunction, and nerve compression. It is performed on a specially engineered treatment table that allows the spine to move in a rhythmic, controlled motion — combining flexion (bending) and distraction (gentle stretching/decompression) of the spine.

Unlike manual spinal adjustments that involve quick thrusts, FDT uses slow, repetitive movements to reduce pressure on spinal discs and joints. The therapy is especially beneficial for individuals who may not tolerate traditional adjustments due to pain, age, disc involvement, or sensitivity to force.

How It Works

The patient lies face-down on a flexion-distraction table, which has movable sections that the chiropractor can lower and raise in a pumping rhythm. As the table moves, the chiropractor applies gentle pressure with their hands to specific spinal segments. This creates a decompression effect that:

• Reduces intradiscal pressure, helping re-centralise bulging or herniated discs
• Relieves pressure on spinal nerves, easing leg pain or sciatica
• Improves spinal mobility by freeing restricted joints and adhesions
• Stretches tight muscles and fascia around the spine
• Promotes nutrient-rich fluid exchange into the intervertebral discs to support healing
• Minimises pain by interrupting the pain-spasm-pain cycle and reducing local inflammation

FDT is considered a low-force technique, making it ideal for:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Sciatica and nerve root compression
• Spinal stenosis
• Chronic low back or neck pain
• Post-surgical cases (when approved by a healthcare team)
• Older adults or those with spinal arthritis who cannot tolerate aggressive adjustments

At Lakeside Chiropractic, we often combine flexion distraction with other therapies — such as soft tissue work, cold laser therapy, and rehabilitative exercises — to maximise healing and comfort.

Relevant Research & Evidence

Flexion Distraction Therapy has been studied extensively in the context of spinal disc injuries, sciatica, and chronic low back pain. Key findings include:

• A literature review shows that flexion-distraction significantly reduces intradiscal pressure, particularly in the lumbar spine. Disc pressure was shown to drop by as much as 20-40% during distraction movements.
• This study concluded that manual therapy using joint mobilization and flexion-distraction techniques is an effective intervention for addressing low back pain and disc heights in patients with chronic low back pain.
• A randomized clinical trial and subgroup analysis compared FDT to active exercise therapy in patients with chronic low back pain and found that both provided significant improvement, with FDT offering earlier relief of leg pain related to disc herniation.

Flexion distraction is widely accepted in conservative spine care as a non-surgical option for disc-related and nerve root-related conditions.

Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Flexion Distraction Therapy hurt?

Not usually. Most people find it comfortable and gentle. The slow, controlled stretching helps ease pressure on spinal joints and discs. Many describe the experience as soothing or relaxing.

2. Can Flexion Distraction Therapy help with herniated or bulging discs?

Yes, this technique is often used for disc-related issues. Research suggests it may help reduce disc pressure and improve mobility, especially in people who may not tolerate manual spinal manipulation.

3. How many sessions will I need?

This depends on the severity and duration of your condition. Some people experience relief within a few visits, while others with chronic disc degeneration or sciatica may benefit from a longer care plan combined with rehabilitation.

4. Is this treatment appropriate for everyone?

Flexion Distraction Therapy is often used with people who prefer gentler techniques, including older adults or those with spinal degeneration. Your chiropractor will perform a full assessment to determine if this method is suitable for your specific case. It may not be recommended in cases involving fractures, spinal infections, or recent surgery.

5. Will I still need adjustments or other therapies?

Possibly. FDT can be used as a standalone therapy, but it often works best when integrated with soft tissue therapy, stretching, cold laser therapy, or corrective exercise, depending on your diagnosis and goals.