Chiropractic distraction/decompression therapy seeks to relieve your pain and improve your spinal function by gently stretching and separating the vertebrae, which reduces pressure on your nerves and discs. Flexion-distraction (a hands-on technique) or spinal decompression (using a motorized table) are methods used to treat conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. 

Flexion-distraction is a chiropractic technique performed on a specialized table where the doctor uses controlled movements and manual adjustments to gently stretch and mobilize the spine. This treatment can help relieve pain by reducing pressure on spinal nerves and discs, improving range of motion, and potentially delaying or eliminating the need for surgery. 

Spinal decompression is often performed with a motorized traction table, which involves gently stretching the spine to relieve pressure on compressed discs, nerves, and joints. It can be especially effective for conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and degenerative joint disease. 

The key differences between these two techniques include the use of manual manipulation in flexion-distraction versus the motorized table in spinal decompression, and the specific conditions each technique is most commonly used to treat. Both methods, however, seek to alleviate your pain and improve your spinal health. 

After talking with my patients and assessing their condition and pain level, we will decide which method of treatment will best help them.