Spinal Decompression vs. Traction Devices

Why is nonsurgical spinal decompression superior to using traction for your disc bulge or herniation?

Traction is defined as the act of being pulled, whereas decompression describes the relief of pressure.  The problem with traction pulling on the spine is that the body reacts to a stretched position with muscle guarding and splinting.  This prevents the disc spaces from opening and healing properly.  

Nonsurgical spinal decompression has many advantages.  In addition to pulling the spine, spinal decompression also senses how much force is used and can decrease the amount if necessary.  We use the SpineMED® device which features computer controlled biofeedback response to monitor the force of pull at a rate of 20 milliseconds.  If your body begins to tighten, the force load will be reduced immediately to avoid muscle guarding.  This allows for effective distraction of the spine to reduce intervertebral disc pressure and result in objective improvements of disc hydration, reduction of disc bulges, and reduced nerve impingement.  The SpineMED® device features a pelvic tilt feature rotating the pelvis between 0-25 degrees during lumbar sessions and the 0-30 degrees for cervical sessions, providing specificity by isolating the damaged disc in a comfortable position.  Older models and traction devices use a tower design that raises and lowers the traction box.