Traction

Traction is one of the oldest forms of treatment for back and neck pain. The proverbial medieval rack was used extensively to treat back pain, scoliosis, and spine fractures in addition to being an instrument of torture.

Traction is believed to work by stretching the back muscles to relieve chronic spasm and by pulling degenerative intervertebral discs apart reversing the effects of gravity. Recently, various computerized machines and treatment programs have been developed to deliver traction therapy, or, non-surgical spinal decompression to the back and neck. These treatments must be delivered by a doctor and usually require 15-20 sessions.

Advocates claim 65-70% good to excellent results as an alternative to spine surgery. Repeat treatments may be necessary in the future if symptoms return. Machines such as the DRX9000, SpineMED System, AccuSpina, and the Vax-D System are available to name a few.

For home self treatment, inversion tables and frames can be purchased. These devices place individuals up-side-down to reverse the effect of gravity and apply natural traction to the spine. Again, the theory is to unload the spinal joints and disc spaces and re-establish height and proper alignment of the spine. Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, stomach reflux, stroke or TIAs, glaucoma, and a history of migraine headaches should consult with their medical doctor prior to using inversion therapy as these conditions may be aggravated.

One of the best forms of traction therapy is simply hanging in the deep end of a pool with a life vest or other flotation device designed for this purpose. There is a window in the degenerative arthritis cascade where traction therapy will be effective. In the advanced stages of degenerative facet and disc disease of the spine, traction may actually aggravate the pain since the spine is essentially stiff and naturally fused and will not move or open up.

Traction can treat the following conditions:

Sponylolisthesis
Facet Arthritis
Spinal Stenosis