Therapy
Spinal Traction Therapy in Indirapuram
Spinal traction applies a controlled pulling force to the neck or lower back to separate the vertebrae slightly and reduce pressure on irritated structures. Some people with nerve root symptoms find it gives useful relief. It works best as part of an active programme, not as a stand-alone fix.
What traction does
During traction you lie on a couch while a machine applies a steady or intermittent pull through a harness around the pelvis or a head halter. The force opens the spaces where nerve roots exit, stretches tight muscles, and may reduce pressure inside the disc briefly.
Relief during or just after traction is common. Whether it lasts depends on what else you do.
Who may benefit
People with nerve root symptoms from disc bulges or narrowing, such as arm pain from the neck or leg pain from the lower back, sometimes respond well. Research is mixed overall, with some subgroups doing better than others. We watch your response over the first few sessions and stop if it isn't helping.
When traction isn't used
Traction isn't used with spinal fractures, tumours, infection, severe osteoporosis, significant instability or high-grade spondylolisthesis, rheumatoid involvement of the upper neck, cauda equina symptoms, recent spinal surgery without surgeon approval, or pregnancy for lumbar traction. Cervical myelopathy usually rules out heavy neck traction.
Medical note
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment is planned after an in-person assessment by a physiotherapist, and we refer you to a doctor where symptoms need medical review first. If you have sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain or severe unexplained pain, seek emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Does traction hurt?
Will traction put my disc back?
How many sessions are typical?
What is Spinal Traction Therapy?
Spinal traction applies a controlled pulling force to the neck or lower back to gently separate the vertebrae and ease pressure on joints, discs and nerves.
Who can benefit from Spinal Traction Therapy?
People with neck or back pain with nerve symptoms, disc bulges and spondylosis who respond to unloading.
What conditions can Spinal Traction Therapy help with?
It commonly helps with disc bulge, cervical spondylosis, lumbar spondylosis, sciatica physiotherapy and degenerative disc disease. Arm pain from a neck nerve is a common use.
What are the benefits of Spinal Traction Therapy?
Relief of nerve-related arm or leg pain for some people, and short-term reduction in spinal pain.
How does Spinal Traction Therapy work?
The pull slightly widens the spaces where nerves exit and reduces compressive load, which can ease nerve irritation.
What happens during a Spinal Traction Therapy assessment?
We check nerve signs, test whether manual traction eases symptoms, and screen for contraindications.
What happens during a Spinal Traction Therapy session?
The area is positioned comfortably, Spinal Traction Therapy is applied for about 10 to 20 minutes within a longer session, and it is usually followed by exercise such as chin tucks and mckenzie extension, because it works best as part of an active plan.
What treatments are used with Spinal Traction Therapy?
It is usually combined with robotic spinal decompression, manual therapy, interferential therapy (IFT) and shortwave diathermy (SWD), depending on your assessment and how you respond.
What exercises are commonly used with Spinal Traction Therapy?
Common exercises include chin tucks, mckenzie extension, pelvic tilts and core bracing. They start at a comfortable level and are progressed as you improve.
How long does a Spinal Traction Therapy session take?
A session usually takes 10 to 20 minutes within a longer session.
How many Spinal Traction Therapy sessions might be needed?
A trial of a few sessions; continued only if it clearly helps.
How often should Spinal Traction Therapy sessions be scheduled?
Two to three times a week.
Can Spinal Traction Therapy help reduce pain?
Yes, for selected people with nerve-related pain.
Can Spinal Traction Therapy improve mobility?
It may ease movement temporarily.
Can Spinal Traction Therapy improve strength and flexibility?
No. Strength and flexibility come from the exercises your physiotherapist sets alongside it.
Can Spinal Traction Therapy be provided at home?
No. Mechanical traction needs clinic equipment.
Is Spinal Traction Therapy suitable after surgery or injury?
Not after spinal fusion; after other surgery only if the surgeon agrees.
Is Spinal Traction Therapy suitable for older adults or children?
Used cautiously in older adults; not used with osteoporosis.
What precautions should be considered with Spinal Traction Therapy?
Not used with osteoporosis, fractures, spinal infection, cancer, instability, pregnancy or severe heart and breathing problems.
When should I consult a physiotherapist about Spinal Traction Therapy?
When neck or back pain spreads into an arm or leg. You can book an assessment at our Indirapuram clinic or ask for a home visit.
Related treatments
Disc Bulge
A bulge is a broad, shallow spread of the disc. What it means, what it doesn't, and how it's treated without surgery.
Learn more SpineCervical Spondylosis
Neck stiffness, shoulder ache and arm symptoms from age-related neck changes, treated with movement and strength.
Learn more SpineLumbar Spondylosis
Age-related wear in the lower back, and why strength and movement matter more than the X-ray report.
Learn moreReady to feel better?
Book an assessment at our Indirapuram clinic or ask for a home visit. Call +91-9999973681 or send a WhatsApp message and we will confirm your slot.