We are proud to offer spinal mechanical traction for the lumbar spine. 

Spinal Traction is defined by constant or intermittent pulling force applied to the spine to gradually stretch the spine. Traction stretches the low back muscles and ligaments and increases the space between the vertebrae. 

Lumbar traction is known for relieving pressure on compressed nerves, helping muscles stretch and relax and hence reduce muscle spasms. Traction increases the space between vertebrae thereby decreasing pressure on intervertebral discs and nerve root. 

Low back pain can be caused by a number of factors from injuries to the effects of aging. The spinal cord is protected by the vertebrae, which are made of bone. Between each vertebra are soft discs with a ligamentous outer layer. These discs work like shock absorbers to protect the vertebra and the spinal cord. Many of the problems that cause back pain are the result of herniation or bulging and degeneration of these discs. Degeneration is a process where wear and tear causes deterioration of the disc.  Herniations are protrusions from the disc that press on surrounding nerves, causing pain or numbness.

Spinal traction can alleviate these herniations by using a specific combination of spinal positioning and varying the degree and intensity of the force.

Spinal traction can treat conditions resulting from a herniated disc.  Spinal decompression traction creates a negative pressure or a vacuum inside the disc that causes the disc to pull the herniation back in.  This increase in negative pressure also causes the flow of blood and nutrients back into the area allowing the body to heal and rehydrate the disc. 

Our therapists will determine the optimum amount of force to use and the length of time the force is to be sustained. Enough force must be used to cause vertebral separation. Though relatively safe, excessive force could increase pain or injury. Force is increased slowly to avoid overstretching or triggering muscle spasms. 

Before receiving traction, a person should get a proper diagnosis from a physician or be directed by a physiotherapist. Traction is contraindicated in people with certain medical conditions including osteoporosis, spinal fractures, Spondylolisthesis and inflammatory arthritis of the spine. 

Spinal Decompression works well for treating patients with:

• Pain due to herniated and bulging lumbar discs that is more than four weeks old
• Recurrent pain from a failed back surgery that is more than six months old.
• Persistent pain from degenerated disc not responding to four weeks of therapy.
• Patients ability to commit to a consistent treatment protocol.