Traction (or decompression) has been used since the days of Hippocrates to treat the spine. And it is still effective treatment today.

Spinal traction is thought to decrease pressure on the spinal nerves, tissues, and discs by lengthening or elongating the vertebral column. Some experts believe that traction should be used routinely to keep healthy backs healthy.

If you have a neck or back problem, your traction treatment should be supervised by a health care practitioner.

The physiological effects of spinal decompression vary depending on many factors. Ask your clinician:

• How long, how much, and in which direction the traction force should be applied
• Whether the force should be continuous or intermittent
• Whether the traction should be applied in a specific posture or joint position.