In our first blog post, we explained how lumbar decompression therapy can help relieve pressure on injured or bulging lumbar discs. In this second post of our six-part series, we’ll focus on another very common source of chronic low back pain: osteoarthritis of the lumbar spine, including degenerative disc arthritis and spondylosis—and how lumbar decompression may help relieve symptoms naturally.
At Stephenson Chiropractic in Bryan, TX, we frequently see patients whose back pain is caused by long-term degenerative changes rather than a single injury. Understanding how these changes affect the spine is the first step toward lasting relief.
What Is Osteoarthritis of the Lumbar Spine?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that develops over time as spinal joints and discs experience repeated wear and tear. In the lower back, this process often affects both the discs and the joints that allow the spine to move smoothly.
Common degenerative spinal conditions include:
- Degenerative disc arthritis – Gradual breakdown and thinning of spinal discs
- Facet joint arthritis – Degeneration of the small stabilizing joints in the back of the spine
- Spondylosis – A general term describing age-related spinal degeneration, often involving bone spurs, disc height loss, and joint arthritis
These changes can lead to chronic low back pain, stiffness, reduced flexibility, and nerve irritation, especially during standing, walking, or bending.
Why Osteoarthritis Causes Chronic Low Back Pain
As spinal arthritis progresses, several mechanical problems develop:
- Disc height loss increases pressure between vertebrae
- Arthritic facet joints become inflamed and painful with movement
- Bone spurs may form, limiting motion and irritating nearby nerves
- Reduced spinal mobility leads to muscle tightness and stiffness
- Nerve compression can cause pain that radiates into the hips or legs
Many patients in the Bryan–College Station area are told that arthritis is something they have to “just live with.” While degeneration cannot be reversed, symptoms can often be managed effectively with conservative care.
How Lumbar Decompression Helps Spinal Osteoarthritis
Lumbar decompression is a non-surgical spinal therapy that gently stretches the lower back using controlled, computer-guided traction. This process reduces mechanical stress on arthritic spinal structures.
Benefits of Lumbar Decompression for Arthritis
Reduces Pressure on Arthritic Joints
Decompression gently separates the vertebrae, decreasing compression on inflamed facet joints and degenerated discs.
Improves Disc Hydration and Nutrient Flow
By creating negative pressure inside the disc, decompression allows water and nutrients to move back into disc tissue—supporting disc health even in arthritic spines.
Relieves Nerve Irritation
Lower pressure within the spine can reduce irritation of spinal nerves, helping relieve aching, burning, or radiating pain.
Improves Mobility and Daily Function
As pressure and inflammation decrease, patients often experience improved flexibility, less stiffness, and easier movement.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Lumbar Decompression?
Lumbar decompression may be appropriate for patients with:
- Lumbar osteoarthritis
- Degenerative disc arthritis
- Lumbar spondylosis
- Chronic low back pain and stiffness
- Pain worsened by standing or walking
- Limited relief from medications or injections
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
- Weakness in the muscles of the legs or feet
At Stephenson Chiropractic, every patient receives a thorough evaluation to determine whether lumbar decompression is the right fit for their specific condition.
A Conservative, Non-Surgical Approach to Back Pain in Bryan, TX
For many patients dealing with spinal arthritis, lumbar decompression offers a safe, conservative alternative to surgery and long-term medication use. When combined with chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and movement guidance, decompression therapy can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.
Our goal is not just short-term pain relief—but helping our Bryan, TX patients stay active, mobile, and confident in their daily lives.
If you’re experiencing chronic low back pain or stiffness and want to know whether lumbar decompression may help, contact Stephenson Chiropractic in Bryan, TX to schedule a consultation.