What is traction?

Traction is a Mechanical or manual technique designed to reduce pressure on affected vertebral discs that are causing pain. Traction is a mechanical and manual ‘stretching’ of the spine which reduces pressure on the discs and therefore reduces the individual’s pain.

How does traction help?

A disc is a circular structure that exists between each vertebra in the spine. It has a tough outer layer surrounding soft inner tissue. When a vertebral disc is under pressure and damaged, the tough outer layer is damaged and the softer inner tissue protrudes through the gap. This protrusion compresses nearby nerves causing pain.

Traction pulls muscles with the vertebra away from the disc, releasing the pressure on the disc. This assists the soft part of the disc to return within the disc. This decompresses the nerve and reduces pain. This also helps to rehydrate the vertebral disc.

Who benefits from traction?