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Traction Therapy

Mechanical traction applied to spinal and joint structures to relieve pain and improve mobility.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Traction Therapy?

Traction therapy is a physical modality that applies controlled longitudinal force to the spine or joint to widen intervertebral space, relieve compressed neural roots, decompress disc and reduce muscle spasm.

Cervical and lumbar traction (mechanical, manual, gravitational, autotraction) are used. Indications include disc herniation with radicular pain, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis (selective), facet joint dysfunction.

Contraindications include spinal instability, malignancy, infection, severe osteoporosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, pregnancy and acute fracture. Evidence is variable; treatment plan is individualized.

Symptoms

Cervical disc herniation with radicular pain
Lumbar disc herniation
Cervical and lumbar spinal stenosis
Facet joint dysfunction
Muscle spasm
Postural lumbar pain
Cervicogenic headache
Functional limitation

Risk Factors

Spinal instability (contraindication)
Malignancy (contraindication)
Active infection (contraindication)
Severe osteoporosis (contraindication)
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (contraindication)
Pregnancy (contraindication)
Acute fracture (contraindication)
Severe rheumatic disease (caution)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Disc herniation with radicular pain
  • Spinal stenosis evaluation
  • Persistent neck and low back pain
  • Functional limitation
  • Conservative treatment failure
  • Postoperative rehabilitation indication

Treatment Methods

01
Detailed assessment of indication
02
Imaging review (MRI/CT)
03
Mechanical or manual traction selection
04
Force determination (cervical 10-25 lb; lumbar 25-50 lb)
05
Sessional treatment (15-25 min, 8-15 sessions)
06
Adjunctive exercise and modalities
07
Patient education and home program
08
Outcome assessment and modification

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.