Cox Flexion-Distraction Therapy in Airdrie
Gentle, hands-on spinal decompression. No cracking, no twisting, no guessing. Targeted relief for back pain, sciatica, and nerve compression.
A Different Kind of Relief
If you've searched for help with back pain and come away feeling like surgery or painkillers are your only options, you're not out of options. You just haven't tried this one yet. Cox Flexion-Distraction is a specialized chiropractic technique designed to gently take pressure off compressed discs and irritated nerves. It's slow, rhythmic, and highly controlled. No forceful cracking, no twisting. Just a trained clinician, a specialized table, and a clear plan to help you get back to moving and feeling like yourself again.
Safe, Specialized Treatment for Back Pain in Airdrie
At Summit Spine Centre, every patient receives a thorough assessment first. Understanding what's causing your problem helps us design a recovery plan built specifically for you.
Comprehensive Assessment
We'll assess how you move, perform a neurological exam, and any other orthopedic tests as needed to build a clear picture of your problem.
Cox Flexion-Distraction
Research has shown Cox Flexion-Distraction helps discs heal by decreasing pressure in the disc, widening the spinal canal, reducing nerve compression, and restoring joint mobility.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Hands-on work targeting tight muscles, trigger points, and fascia that may be contributing to your symptoms or slowing your recovery.
Personalized Exercise & Stretching
We'll give you a home routine that supports what we're doing in the clinic: not a generic handout, but exercises chosen specifically for your condition and your body.
Lifestyle Modifications
Practical, real-world guidance on posture, movement habits, ergonomics, and activity modifications to help you heal faster and reduce the chance of flare-ups.
Why Choose Summit Spine Centre for Cox Flexion-Distraction in Airdrie
Specialized Cox Technic Training
Not every chiropractor is trained in Cox Flexion-Distraction. Our team has dedicated training in this technique and uses it as part of a structured, evidence-informed approach to your care.
We Take the Time to Understand
We don't rush assessments. Before we touch the table, we make sure we understand what's actually causing your problem.
A Clear Plan from the Start
You'll leave your first visit with a better understanding of what's going on, and the next steps to help you reach your next summit! (See what we did there)
Rooted in Airdrie
We're not a franchise. We're your neighbours, and we love our community! We're dedicated to providing Airdrie with excellent spine care and supporting our city.
What Happens During a Cox Flexion-Distraction Session?
Thorough Assessment
Before anything else, we take the time to understand your problem, history, and goals. Through movement analysis, reflex and strength testing, and orthopedic exam, we better understand your story.
Flexion-Distraction Motion
Using slow, rhythmic, hands-on movements, the spine is gently pulled apart and moved side-to-side. This creates space, reduces pressure within the disc, and allows irritated nerves to decompress.
Supportive Care
Adjustments, soft tissue work, or other manual techniques may be added to support your care as needed.
Your Home Plan
You'll leave with exercises, stretches, and lifestyle guidance chosen specifically for your condition, so you're always improving.
What is Cox Flexion-Distraction therapy?
Cox Flexion-Distraction is a specialized chiropractic technique that gently stretches and mobilizes the spine to reduce pressure on compressed or herniated discs and irritated nerves. It uses a specialized treatment table and slow, controlled movements. No cracking or twisting required.
Is Cox Flexion-Distraction the same as spinal decompression?
They're similar in goal but different in approach. Cox Flexion-Distraction is a hands-on, chiropractor-applied technique using a specialized table. Mechanical decompression (like traction machines) is more automated. Cox Technic allows the clinician to make real-time adjustments based on your response, which is one of the reasons we prefer it for disc cases.
Does Cox Flexion-Distraction hurt?
Most people are surprised by how comfortable it is. The technique is low-force and rhythmic by design. Some mild soreness is normal after the first few sessions as your body responds to treatment, but the treatment itself should never be painful. We always work within your comfort level.
How long does it take to see results with Cox Flexion-Distraction?
Results vary depending on the severity of your condition and how long you've been dealing with symptoms. Many people notice improvement within a few visits. A full course of care for disc-related conditions often runs 4–8 weeks, though some people recover faster and some require more time. After your assessment, we'll give you a realistic idea of what to expect.
Can Cox Flexion-Distraction help with a herniated disc?
Yes. Disc herniations are one of the primary conditions Cox Flexion-Distraction was designed for. By reducing pressure in the disc and creating space around the affected nerve, the technique helps relieve the inflammation and pain associated with a herniated or bulging disc, often without surgery.
Can a chiropractor help with sciatica using this technique?
Absolutely. Sciatica caused by a disc herniation, stenosis, or other spinal compression often responds very well to Cox Flexion-Distraction. The technique directly targets the source of nerve irritation rather than just managing symptoms.
Is Cox Flexion-Distraction safe?
Yes. Cox Flexion-Distraction is one of the most researched and widely used techniques in chiropractic care for disc conditions. It's specifically designed to be gentle and low-force, making it appropriate for a wide range of patients, including seniors, post-surgical patients, and those with significant degeneration.
Who is a good candidate for Cox Flexion-Distraction?
Anyone dealing with disc-related back or neck pain, sciatica, nerve compression, or spinal stenosis may benefit from this technique. It's particularly well-suited for people who want a non-surgical option or who have been told they can't tolerate traditional chiropractic adjustments. It's also a great option for people looking to maintain their spine health proactively, not just those in acute pain. The best way to know is to book an assessment.
How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your symptoms, and how your body responds. After your first assessment, we'll give you a clear picture of what to expect. Most disc conditions require a series of visits. We'll check in regularly and adjust the plan based on how you're progressing.
Is Cox Flexion-Distraction covered by insurance in Alberta?
Chiropractic care in Alberta is not covered by Alberta Health Care (AHCIP), but many extended health benefit plans do cover chiropractic services. We recommend calling your provider to confirm your chiropractic benefits before your first visit.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor in Airdrie?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with Summit Spine Centre. If imaging or a specialist is required, we'll guide you through that process.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Your first appointment will focus on understanding you: not just your pain, but your history, your lifestyle, and your goals. We'll do a thorough assessment including movement testing, orthopedic and neurological tests, and we'll discuss your imaging if you have any. If Cox Flexion-Distraction is the right fit, we may begin a gentle initial session. Either way, you'll leave with a clear plan to help you reach your goals.
Don't Let Disc Pain Put Life on Pause. Book Today.
If you've been dealing with back pain, leg pain, or nerve symptoms that just won't quit, there's a good chance Cox Flexion-Distraction can help. Let's figure out what's going on and build a plan to get you back to the things that matter.

