Cox Distraction

gentle, safe, and research-based

The COX table was developed to address herniated discs and other spinal conditions such as facet syndrome, sciatica, neck, and lower back pain due to misalignments or subluxations. Achieve Health Maumee offers Maumee Cox Distraction services in Maumee to help you feel your best.
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 Cox Flexion Distraction Defined

The goal of Cox Flexion-Distraction is to decompress the spine by applying gentle stretching or traction to the neck and/or lower back. The Cox Flexion Distraction technique is performed on a special table (designed by Dr. Cox), which has moving parts to effectively separate the vertebrae of the spine. The combination of this special adjustment table and very gentle pressure utilizes flexion-distraction and decompression to increase the disc height between the vertebrae, decompressing the spinal column and restoring the spinal joints to their proper alignment and range of motion. The chiropractor can adjust the different sections of the table to neutralize the effects of gravity and then apply gentle pressure to the affected areas as they move through a more normal range of motion. Movements are repetitive and usually slow, without any quick thrusts or undue pressure.

The Cox flexion/distraction  technique has been found to:

  • Reduce pressure within the disc
  • Widen the spinal canal
  • Improve range of motion in the spinal joints
  • Improve posture
  • Reduce pressure on spinal nerves
  • Increase circulation
  • Improve nerve communication

About

Cox Distraction is gentle, safe, and research-based. It is an “established technique” with data collection from nearly 30 years of diligent study by its founder, Dr. James M. Cox, DC, DACBR, and the many physicians who have studied with him.

Cox Distraction delivers relief relatively quickly. In the largest data collection of low back pain outcomes (1,000 cases), a mean of 12 visits in 29 days to relieved pain. For cervical spine, 13 visits was the mean. These averages may differ for individual conditions and patients.

Cox distraction treament relies on cooperation from the doctor – to be knowledgeable of diagnosis and proper treatment application – and from the patient ~ to make the appointments, to do home care, modify lifestyle as necessary.

Spinal pain related conditions that may benefit from Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression may include:

  • Lumbar disc herniation
  • Cervical disc herniation
  • Neck and Arm Pain
  • Low Back Pain
  • Leg Pain
  • Radiculopathy (Leg Pain) sciatica
  • Thoracic disc herniation
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Facet syndrome
  • Pelvic pain
  • Headache
  • Osteoporosis
  • Pregnancy back pain
  • Subluxation
  • Mechanical back pain
  • Coccydynia (tailbone pain)
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Knee pain, to list a few conditions.

The Lumbar Spine Adjustment:

During treatment, the doctor will gently hold the spinous process -the small, bony prominence you can feel along your spine – to isolate a specific spinal segment for focused care. This precise contact allows the doctor to target the exact level of dysfunction, rather than applying a generalized adjustment. Once the target area is identified, a specialized manual distraction manipulation technique is applied to the lower back at the level(s) of the spine that are restricted, inflamed, or causing pain.

Throughout the procedure, the doctor remains in full control of every movement and carefully observes how your spine responds in real time. This feedback-driven approach allows adjustments to be tailored to your comfort level and clinical needs. To create the desired therapeutic effect, the table gently moves in specific directions: “up and down” (flexion and extension), “side to side” (lateral flexion), or in a smooth, circular motion (circumduction). These movements are slow, controlled, and designed to stay well within the patient’s tolerance, making the treatment both safe and comfortable. Even for those experiencing significant pain or sensitivity.

As the Cox Distraction table performs its downward phase, it creates a mild negative pressure within the spinal discs. This decompressive effect can help draw a herniated or bulging disc back toward its natural position, relieving pressure on surrounding nerves and reducing inflammation. Additionally, this gentle stretching action can improve spinal mobility, enhance circulation to the affected area, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

It’s important to understand that not all disc herniations are the same. Factors such as the severity, location, and duration of the condition can influence how well a patient responds to treatment. A thorough examination, including a detailed history, physical assessment, and any necessary imaging, will help determine whether Cox Distraction therapy is the most appropriate and effective option for your specific condition.