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6 DRX 9000 Machines — More Than Any Clinic in Central Illinois

Spinal Decompression Therapy in Bloomington-Normal, IL

Non-surgical relief for herniated discs, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease. Central Illinois Spine has been delivering results-driven spinal decompression to Bloomington, Normal, and McLean County since 2005.

Schedule a Consultation (309) 268-9000
6 DRX 9000 Machines
Non-Surgical Treatment
Serving Bloomington-Normal Since 2005
3 Chiropractic Physicians
Exclusive Interview

Hear Directly From Dr. Dickhut

Dr. Jeffrey Dickhut, clinic owner and chiropractic physician, sits down for an in-depth interview on spinal decompression — who it helps, how the DRX 9000 works, and why Central Illinois Spine invested in more machines than any other clinic in the region.

Exclusive Interview: The Spinal Decompression Solution

Dr. Jeffrey Dickhut, D.C. — Clinic Owner & Chiropractic Physician at Central Illinois Spine, Bloomington-Normal, IL

What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-surgical, FDA-cleared treatment that uses a motorized traction table to gently and precisely stretch the spine. This stretching creates negative intradiscal pressure — essentially, a gentle vacuum effect — that can pull herniated or bulging disc material back toward its proper position and away from the nerves that are being compressed.

At the same time, decompression increases the flow of water, oxygen, and nutrients into the discs, which promotes natural healing in tissue that normally has very limited blood supply. For many patients who have been told surgery is their only option, spinal decompression provides a genuine non-surgical alternative.

How the DRX 9000 Works

Central Illinois Spine uses the DRX 9000 — the gold standard in non-surgical spinal decompression equipment. The DRX 9000 is a computer-controlled treatment table that delivers precise, targeted decompression forces to specific spinal segments. Unlike manual traction, the DRX 9000 monitors patient response in real time and adjusts the treatment protocol accordingly.

The treatment itself is relaxing. You lie comfortably on the table while the system cycles through gentle stretch and release patterns. Sessions last approximately 30–45 minutes, and most patients report the experience as pain-free — many fall asleep during treatment.

Why 6 Machines Matters to You

Central Illinois Spine operates 6 DRX 9000 machines — more than any other clinic in central Illinois. This means:

  • No waitlists between sessions — spinal decompression works best with consistent, closely-spaced treatments
  • Flexible scheduling that fits your life
  • The clinical volume and experience that comes from treating a large number of spinal decompression patients every single day
  • Multiple machines means simultaneous treatment of different spinal levels if needed

Most competitors in Bloomington-Normal have one or two machines — the difference in scheduling flexibility and treatment continuity is significant.

Am I a Candidate?

Who Benefits from Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression works best for patients with disc-related spine conditions who haven't found lasting relief through other conservative care.

Good Candidates

  • Herniated or bulging disc confirmed by MRI
  • Sciatica — shooting pain down one or both legs
  • Degenerative disc disease with chronic back pain
  • Neck or back pain that has not responded to medication alone
  • Spinal stenosis causing leg pain or weakness
  • Failed conservative treatment, seeking a surgical alternative
  • Prior back surgery that did not provide lasting relief

Not Appropriate For

  • Spinal fractures (acute or unstable)
  • Severe osteoporosis
  • Spinal metal hardware or implants
  • Pregnancy
  • Active cancer in or near the spine
  • Aortic aneurysm

A thorough exam and imaging review during your initial consultation will determine whether you are a candidate.

Central Illinois Spine clinical staff with spinal decompression patient in Normal, IL
Our Approach

More Than a Machine — A Complete Protocol

Spinal decompression at Central Illinois Spine isn't just traction. Our doctors design a comprehensive treatment protocol that may include:

  • Pre-decompression chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal alignment and maximize decompression effectiveness
  • Class IV Laser Therapy applied to the treatment area to reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue healing
  • Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and prevent re-injury
  • Corrective exercise and lifestyle coaching for long-term spine health
Get Started Today
Patient Stories

Real Patients, Real Results

Hear from patients who found relief at Central Illinois Spine after struggling with disc problems and chronic back pain.

Sydney's Story

Relief from disc herniation and chronic back pain through spinal decompression therapy

Marshall's Story

Avoided surgery after spinal decompression treatment at Central Illinois Spine

Jasmin's Story

Back to life after struggling with sciatica and debilitating leg pain

Raymond's Story

Years of chronic back pain resolved with the DRX 9000 spinal decompression program

See It In Action

The DRX 9000 — How It Works

DRX 9000 Machine Demo

See exactly how the DRX 9000 delivers non-surgical spinal decompression treatment

Recognition

Bloomington-Normal's Most Awarded Spine Clinic

Voted Best Chiropractic Office Pantagraph Readers' Choice 2020-2024

Best Chiropractic Office
Pantagraph 2020–2024

Voted Best Chiropractor Pantagraph Readers' Choice 2020-2024

Best Chiropractor
Pantagraph 2020–2024

Voted Best Physical Therapy Pantagraph Readers' Choice 2021-2024

Best Physical Therapy
Pantagraph 2021–2024

Bob FM Best Chiropractic Office 2024

Best Chiropractic Office
Bob FM 2024

Ready to Find Out If Spinal Decompression Is Right for You?

Schedule a consultation with one of our chiropractic physicians in Bloomington-Normal, IL. We'll review your history, examine your spine, and give you an honest assessment — no pressure, no upselling.

Schedule a Consultation (309) 268-9000

1603 Visa Drive #3, Normal, IL 61761 · Mon–Fri: 7:15AM–6:00PM (Fri closes 5PM)

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical, traction-based treatment performed on the DRX 9000 machine. It gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on compressed discs and nerves, allowing herniated or bulging disc material to retract and promoting the flow of nutrients into damaged disc tissue.
Most patients find spinal decompression comfortable — many actually fall asleep during sessions. You may feel a gentle stretching sensation. If you experience any discomfort, the treatment can be immediately adjusted. Sessions typically last 30–45 minutes.
A typical treatment plan involves 15–20 sessions over 4–6 weeks, though this varies based on your condition's severity and how you respond. We evaluate your progress throughout and adjust your plan accordingly.
Spinal decompression works well for patients with herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, facet syndrome, or failed back surgery syndrome. It is generally not recommended for patients who are pregnant, have severe osteoporosis, spinal fractures, or certain implants. We'll determine your candidacy during your evaluation.
Central Illinois Spine has invested in 6 DRX 9000 machines — the most of any clinic in central Illinois — so patients never wait for treatment and we can accommodate complex or back-to-back scheduling. The DRX 9000 is the gold-standard FDA-cleared decompression device with the most clinical research supporting its outcomes.