Back pain can disrupt every part of your life—from sleep and exercise to your ability to work or simply enjoy a walk. At Complete Chiropractic Soorts & Wellness in Durham, many of our patients explore spinal decompression as a non-surgical path to relief. But one question often comes up before starting treatment: Is spinal decompression therapy covered by insurance?
In this post, we’ll walk you through the most important facts about spinal decompression insurance coverage, what most plans include (and don’t), how to use flexible spending tools, and what to ask your provider before starting care—so you can move forward confidently.
What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?
Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that gently stretches the spine using a motorized traction table or similar device. This stretching helps relieve pressure on spinal discs, encouraging rehydration and healing for common issues such as:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sciatica or pinched nerves
- Spinal stenosis (mild to moderate cases)
Because it’s non-invasive, drug-free, and requires no downtime, spinal decompression appeals to patients who want pain relief without surgery or long recovery periods.
Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Typically Covered by Insurance?
The short answer: No. Insurance coverage for spinal decompression varies widely based on your provider, plan details, medical diagnosis, and the method used (mechanical vs. manual traction).
1. Most Carriers Consider Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression “Experimental”
Mechanical spinal decompression performed on specialized equipment is often classified as “investigational or experimental.” That means most traditional insurance plans—including Medicare and many private carriers—do not cover it outright.
This is true even when the procedure is delivered by licensed providers like chiropractors, physical therapists, or medical doctors. Why? These plans often want more large-scale, peer-reviewed evidence before assigning a billing code or approving reimbursement. Although, we do have significance evidence of its effectiveness (91% success rate) and FDA approval, we cannot control what insurance decides they want to cover.
2. Manual Traction May Be Covered Instead
Many insurers do cover manual spinal traction, a similar approach sometimes used during chiropractic adjustments or physical therapy. Manual traction may be billed under existing CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes such as:
- 97012 — Mechanical traction therapy (possibly covered if bundled with other modalities)
- 98940–98942 — Chiropractic manipulation codes for spine regions
Depending on your plan, a chiropractor may be able to deliver decompression as part of a broader treatment plan that is partially reimbursed.
3. Medicare and Medicaid Coverage
Medicare does not cover mechanical spinal decompression therapy as a standalone service. However, it may reimburse spinal manipulation or traction when medically necessary and properly coded.
Medicaid coverage varies by state. North Carolina Medicaid, for example, does not list spinal decompression therapy as a covered benefit. It’s essential to check with your case manager or plan administrator.
4. PPO and Employer-Sponsored Plans May Offer More Flexibility
Patients with PPO plans or employer-sponsored wellness benefits may see partial reimbursement, especially when treatment is:
- Documented as medically necessary
- Delivered by an in-network chiropractor
- Billed using general therapy codes (e.g., traction, manipulation)
Some patients have used high-tier PPOs to recoup a portion of decompression treatment through out-of-network benefits or chiropractic wellness stipends.
How Much Does Spinal Decompression Cost Without Insurance?
If insurance doesn’t cover spinal decompression, what can you expect to pay?
- Per-session cost: $50-$250
- Total program cost: $1,290–$3,900 (typically 6-24 sessions) This typically includes shockwave therapy or cold laser therapy before the treatment.
These costs may vary based on region, condition severity, and whether additional therapies are included. Compared to back surgery (which may exceed $30,000), decompression remains a cost-effective alternative for many.
Can You Use HSA or FSA Funds to Pay for Spinal Decompression?
Yes—and this is one of the most important options for patients seeking financial relief.
Spinal decompression is often eligible for payment through a:
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
To qualify, your provider must document:
- Medical necessity
- Diagnosis of a qualifying spinal condition
- Recommended treatment plan
Request an itemized receipt and keep all records in case of an audit.
What to Ask Your Insurance Company Before Starting Care
Before beginning therapy, ask your insurer:
- Is spinal decompression therapy covered under my plan?
- Are mechanical or manual traction treated differently?
- Are chiropractic visits with decompression partially reimbursed?
- Do I need a referral or pre-authorization?
- Can I use HSA/FSA funds to pay for this therapy?
The answers will help you plan both your treatment schedule and your budget.
How We Help at Complete Chiropractic Sports and Wellness in Durham
At Complete Chiropractic Sports & Wellness, we know that financial uncertainty can prevent people from getting care. That’s why we make the process as transparent and supportive as possible. Here’s how:
- We verify insurance benefits and explain your options clearly
- We provide detailed receipts and CPT codes for reimbursement
- We accept HSA and FSA payments directly
- We offer in-house payment plans if needed
- We never surprise you with hidden fees
Whether you’re paying out-of-pocket or combining insurance with personal funds, we help you find a payment path that works.
Final Thoughts
Spinal decompression therapy can be a life-changing option for patients with disc-related pain—but navigating insurance coverage can be frustrating. While plans don’t cover mechanical decompression outright, manual alternatives and chiropractic visits may qualify under broader categories.
Flexible savings tools like HSAs and FSAs are powerful ways to reduce your burden—and our office is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re in Durham and wondering whether spinal decompression is right for your condition and your budget, schedule a free consultation today. We’ll assess your needs, review your options, and help you take the next step toward pain-free living.
Sources:
- Healthline – Does Medicare Cover Spinal Decompression? https://www.healthline.com/health/medicare/does-medicare-cover-spinal-decompression/
- Medical News Today – Medicare and Spinal Decompression Coverage. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-medicare-cover-spinal-decompression/
- Prieto Chiropractic – Does Insurance Cover Spinal Decompression? https://www.prietochiropractic.com/spinal-decompression/does-insurance-cover-spinal-decompression/
- Dr. Brandon Holmes – Is Spinal Decompression Covered by Insurance? https://www.drbrandonholmes.com/blog/is-spinal-decompression-covered-by-insurance/
