Mechanical Traction
Mechanical traction is an effective, nonsurgical treatment for spinal pain. While it can be performed manually by a chiropractor or physical therapist, it usually has a greater rate of success when administered mechanically by a device specially designed for the purpose. The machine is normally a special table that uses ropes or pulleys that attach either to the neck, legs or lower back. By pulling on the vertebrae with gentle force, often exerted against gravity, mechanical traction reduces pressure on the vertebral discs, thus straightening the spine and permitting improved circulation. These actions reduce pain, allowing the body to heal itself without interference.
Mechanical traction is a helpful treatment for many spinal and joint conditions, including:
- Head and neck pain
- Back and joint pain
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sciatica
- Pinched nerves
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal stenosis
Mechanical traction has proven to be effective in relieving patient pain during acute episodes and, in some cases, eliminating the need for surgical intervention. A recent government study (2014) has shown that patients with cervical radiculopathy showed significantly more improvement using a combination of exercise and mechanical traction, than those using exercise alone.
Mechanical traction is generally a safe procedure with little or no risk to otherwise healthy patients, though patients may experience temporary soreness or muscle spasm shortly after treatment. For patients with osteoporosis, certain cancers and other underlying disease conditions that affect bone density or muscle strength, however, traction therapy is not recommended.