Unfortunately, for a lot of people, neck and back pain are a constant battle. Traction therapy is a non-surgical option that can relieve neck and back pain by stretching and realigning the spine for many people. Essentially, the purpose is to reverse the effects that gravity has on the spine.
Who Benefits from Traction Therapy?
Traction therapy is most commonly used to treat people with the following conditions:
- Slipped discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated discs
- Bulged discs
- Ruptured discs
- Disc tears
- Disc prolapses
- Pinched nerves
- Facet disease
- Sciatica
- Spinal stenosis
- Foramina stenosis
- Bone spurs
Is Traction Therapy Safe?
Although there are no long-term risks of spinal traction, some side effects may occur during or after treatment.
- Many people experience muscle spasms after traction therapy. Most doctors expect this and are prepared.
- Some people have experienced pain in the treated areas, which often occurs if there are any other underlying, possibly undiagnosed health issues with the patient.
Although spinal traction does have some potential side effects, the benefits often outweigh them as it offers consistent relief for most people. You should always consult with a professional before trying traction therapy and always only do so under medical care. Do not attempt traction therapy on your own.
You’re Most Likely Not a Good Candidate for Traction Therapy if You’re
- Older than 70
- Pregnant
- Severely obese
- Suffering from osteoporosis
- Being treated for types of cancer
- Experiencing nerve damage
Application of Traction Therapy
Traction therapy can be performed two different ways, according to Healthline:
- Manual spinal traction therapy. A doctor or physical therapist uses their hands to put their patients in a state of traction.
- Mechanical spinal traction therapy. Patients lie on a table that is equipped to stretch the spine.
How Do I Prepare for Traction Therapy?
Your doctor should perform a comprehensive evaluation and create a treatment plan before undergoing traction therapy as it often works best when incorporated with other chiropractic treatments and therapy practices. Once you are scheduled for a traction therapy session, although not necessary, your doctor may recommend some at-home exercises to do before and after treatment.
How Long Will I Need Traction Therapy?
As with many therapies, the answer depends upon the individual situation and how your body reacts to the treatment. Some people only require traction therapy for a short time; others need it throughout their lives.
Total Chiropractic Care and Traction Therapy
Total Chiropractic Care and Wellness offers spinal decompression therapy, a form of mechanical spinal traction. Once you have had a thorough evaluation, Dr. Goldman may recommend spinal decompression therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. If spinal decompression therapy is part of your treatment plan, you will be secured on a decompression table that will move as it produces a computer-aided distraction force onto the specific area of the spine. Treatments generally last 30-45 minutes.
* Please note that a blog is not a substitute for an actual health evaluation from a medical professional. It is offered for information purposes, only. It is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or medical professional for specific information regarding your individual situation.