Mechanical traction is a therapeutic technique that involves the use of a mechanical device to apply a pulling force to the spine or extremities. The aim of mechanical traction is to alleviate pain, reduce muscle spasms, and improve mobility by stretching and decompressing the affected area.
Mechanical traction can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. During mechanical traction, the patient lies down on a table while a device pulls on a harness or straps that are attached to their body.
The pulling force can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of traction, and treatment sessions typically last between 10 and 30 minutes. Mechanical traction can be performed in a clinical setting by a healthcare provider, or in some cases, patients may be provided with a home traction device for self-administration. However, mechanical traction is not suitable for everyone, and it is important to consult a healthcare provider before beginning this type of treatment.
