A traction table is a specialized non-surgical medical device used primarily in physical therapy and chiropractic settings. It is designed to apply a controlled, mechanical force to the spine, a process known as spinal decompression therapy. The fundamental purpose of this device is to gently stretch the spine in a controlled manner to alleviate pressure on compressed spinal structures. These tables feature a segmented surface and a harness system, allowing practitioners to target specific areas of the neck or lower back. The device provides a conservative, non-invasive treatment option aimed at improving mobility and reducing pain associated with various musculoskeletal conditions.
How Spinal Decompression Works
The therapeutic action of a traction table centers on the principle of spinal decompression, which involves gently separating the vertebrae. This controlled mechanical stretching changes the force and position of the spine, creating a negative pressure, or vacuum-like effect, within the intervertebral disc space. This negative pressure is believed to encourage bulging or herniated disc material to retract, effectively taking pressure off irritated spinal nerves and other sensitive structures.
The decompression action also facilitates a biochemical process within the discs. By reducing the pressure, the vacuum effect helps draw water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids into the spinal discs. This improved flow supports disc nutrition and hydration, which is necessary for healing and repair. Furthermore, the gentle stretching helps to elongate and relax the surrounding paraspinal muscles and ligaments, which can relieve muscle spasms and enhance joint mobility.
Conditions Treated Using Traction Tables
Traction tables are commonly utilized for managing pain that results from nerve compression or spinal stiffness. One of the most frequent indications is a herniated or bulging disc, where the treatment aims to reduce the disc material pressing on nerve roots. This therapy is also often applied to treat sciatica, which is characterized by pain, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the leg, typically caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.
People suffering from degenerative disc disease, where the discs have worn down over time, may find relief as the traction helps create space between the vertebrae. Other conditions that benefit include facet joint syndrome, which involves inflammation or pain in the small joints along the back of the spine.
Different Types of Traction Application
Traction tables apply force to two main spinal regions: the neck, known as cervical traction, and the lower back, known as lumbar traction. Cervical traction involves a head halter or specialized sling to gently pull the neck, often used for conditions causing pain that radiates into the arms. Lumbar traction involves securing the patient’s pelvis and torso with harnesses, and the pulling force is directed toward the feet.
The application of force can be either static, where a constant, continuous pulling force is maintained for the duration of the session, or intermittent. Intermittent traction involves cycles of pull and relaxation, where the force gradually increases to a peak level and then reduces to a lower level. Modern mechanical traction tables are typically computerized, allowing the practitioner to precisely control and customize the force, angle, and duration of the pull.
Patient Experience and Treatment Duration
During a traction table session, the patient remains fully clothed and lies comfortably on the specialized table, positioned according to the targeted area. The therapist secures the patient with harnesses around the pelvis or lower back and sometimes the upper trunk, connecting them to the traction unit. The table often has a sliding section for the lower body, which helps minimize friction as the force is applied.
Once the computerized machine is activated, the patient begins to feel a gentle, slow stretching sensation in the targeted area. This feeling should be a mild stretch and not cause pain, and the patient is given a safety switch to immediately stop the treatment if discomfort occurs. A single session typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, customized based on the patient’s specific condition and tolerance.
To achieve lasting results, spinal decompression therapy requires multiple sessions. A typical treatment plan involves 15 to 30 sessions scheduled over a period of five to seven weeks. The treatment is often relaxing and frequently integrated with other therapies, such as heat, cold, or electrical stimulation, to enhance the overall rehabilitative process.