Knee Decompression Therapy in San Francisco

Knee decompression therapy, also called knee traction, is a non-surgical treatment that gently separates the bones of the knee joint. Creating that small amount of space takes pressure off the cartilage and meniscus, which can ease pain and stiffness and help fluid and nutrients move back into the joint.

Knee On Trac® is the automated knee traction device we use at TruSpine. It isolates the knee and applies a gentle, controlled pull while you sit back and relax, so the joint can decompress without stressing your hips or back.

TruSpine offers knee decompression with Knee On Trac® at 50 Francisco Street, Suite 257, in North Beach / North Waterfront, near Fisherman's Wharf, Russian Hill, the Marina and Telegraph Hill. Book online or call (415) 421-1115.

Yes. Knee osteoarthritis is the main reason patients come to us for knee decompression. Easing pressure inside the joint can reduce pain and stiffness and make walking and stairs easier, especially when it is combined with strengthening exercises. More on osteoarthritis of the knee.

Many people told their knee is bone on bone still have some joint space left, and that space is what decompression works with. It can help ease pain and stiffness for many of these patients. If your exam suggests your knee needs a surgical opinion, we will tell you and refer you.

It can help pain from a degenerative or worn meniscus by taking pressure off it. A recent tear with locking, catching or a knee that gives way needs an orthopedic assessment first. Read about meniscus injuries.

No. Most people find it comfortable and relaxing. You feel a gentle stretch through the knee. Some people notice mild soreness afterward that settles quickly.

Each Knee On Trac® session takes about 15 minutes. You sit back and relax while the device does the work, so it is easy to fit into a lunch break.

Most patients come 2 to 3 times a week. The total number of visits depends on your knee, how long it has hurt and how you respond. After your exam we recommend a plan built around your goals and check your progress along the way.

Your initial appointment is $49. It includes a consultation and a full knee exam so we can tell you if knee decompression is right for you. We explain your treatment plan and costs before you start, and we work with many in-network and out-of-network insurance plans.

For many people it is a reasonable treatment to try before injections or surgery. It is non-invasive and low risk. It is not right for every knee, and we will tell you honestly if your knee needs a different approach.

Knee decompression is not recommended if you have a knee replacement or other hardware in the knee, a recent fracture, an acute ligament tear, a joint infection, a blood clot, a tumor, or severe osteoporosis. Tell us your full health history so we can confirm it is safe for you.

It works on the same principle, gentle traction that creates space in a joint, but it is designed for the knee. We also offer spinal decompression therapy for disc and nerve pain in the back and neck.

We usually pair it with shockwave therapy, Graston soft tissue work, laser therapy and a home exercise program for the hip, thigh and calf, so your results last.

Not always. A hands-on exam often tells us what is going on. If you already have imaging, bring it. If we need it, we will order it or refer you.

Coverage varies by plan. We work with many in-network and out-of-network insurance plans, and our team can check your benefits before your visit.

It depends on how the pain started. Our guide knee pain doctor: who to see and when walks through your options.