Non-surgical spinal decompression is a type of motorized traction that may help relieve back pain. Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine. This changes the force and position of the spine. The change takes pressure off the spinal disks, which are gel-like cushions between the bones in your spine by creating negative pressure in the disc. As a result, bulging or herniated disks may retract, taking pressure off nerves and other structures in your spine. This in turn helps promote movement of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the disks so they can heal.