Authored by Palak Dengla, Chief Physiotherapist, Aster RV Hospital

Being a Physiotherapist, I often encounter the term Spinal traction aimed at alleviating pain and to increase mobility at a particular joint. Traction in simple words is decompression or distraction of two joints. It is an artificial therapeutic way of enhancing joint space to assist tissue growth and healing. Spinal Traction is used to increase inter vertebral disc space post prolapse/slipped disc, or in case of a severe muscle spasm as part of acute management of pain. 

What are the different types of spinal traction?

Manual traction given with the help of hand whereas a Mechanical traction using a traction table and the traction unit. “Clinicians precisely calibrate mechanical traction according to the patient’s weight, deliver a specific traction force at a specific angle and for a particular duration, unlike manual traction, which they control by hand and which is subjective in nature.”

How does traction help reduce the pain along the spine?

Traction decompresses the spine and enhances the space between the two surfaces. “A pinch on any kind of sensory or afferent nerve in our body generally causes pain. Removing the pressure or pinch over the nerve can make it pain-free. Spinal traction provides a conservative, non-surgical approach to ease the neural pinch.”

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What are the benefits of spine traction?

Tractions aids in healing of the tissues and the intervertebral discs by promoting rehydration and healing the degenerated discs. It helps to increase the Range of motion to maintain good flexibility and mobility to combat muscle stiffness and pain. It assists overall muscle relaxation.

Are there any side effects and disadvantages of spine traction therapy?

Traction is a modality of choice. We need to make a wise decision while prescribing a treatment plan for our patients. “A qualified physiotherapist must thoroughly assess the patient while considering red flags. Physiotherapists must refrain from providing traction therapy to patients with cancer, ligament instability, extreme muscular weakness, neurological conditions, vascular insufficiency, or osteoporosis.”

What are the types of pain that can be treated with spine traction therapy?

It can be performed manually or mechanically. I generally practice, both, manual and mechanical spinal traction. I use Mulligan Spinal traction Concept wherein I use the Mulligan Belt. It gives immediate relief to the patient in single session. Mechanica traction table is also extremely effective in case of neck or low back pain. “Doctors commonly use spinal traction to treat herniated discs or slipped discs, sciatica, arthritis of the spine, spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, and many other back conditions.”

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