Spinal Traction (Decompression)
Spinal traction is a form of decompression therapy that relieves pressure on the spine. It can be performed manually or mechanically. Spinal traction stretches the spine to take pressure off compressed joints and discs. This straightens the spine and improves the body’s ability to heal itself.
Conditions Treated
- Herniated or Bulging Discs
- Neural Impingement (Pinched nerve)
- Sciatica
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Post-Surgical Patients
- Facet Syndrome
- Spinal Stenosis
- Arthritis
Benefits of Spinal Traction
The pressure within the spinal discs is decreased, which relieves pain and encourages nutrition to the disc.
Joints, muscles and ligaments are lengthened and stretched in ways that are not possible with exercises/everyday movements.
Proper circulation and nutrients are brought to the spine by allowing a flushing of inflammatory chemicals and influx of oxygen to the area.
"After a few sessions the mobility in my neck had increased and my lower back pain was gone." ★★★★★
— Ailish Bergin
Traction gently separates the spinal bones or vertebrae of the neck and back. Traction can be performed manually – or by utilizing a mechanical traction unit.
Manual traction is where practitioners use their hands to apply the traction force to the spinal joints.
Mechanical traction via a traction or decompression machine is often used when additional force is required and a longer duration of traction is needed.
How safe is spinal traction?
Spinal traction or decompression is very safe when administered by a trained professional. Careful assessment is essential to determine if traction will benefit you. This depends on your symptoms, the severity of your injury and your current stage of healing.
Consideration is also given to your medical history and your response to previous treatments. If your physiotherapist finds that all these factors are appropriate, spinal traction can be an effective treatment choice.