Traction is a form of decompression therapy that we are happy to offer at our Fort Wayne, IN physical therapy practice. It relieves pressure on the spine and alleviates pain from joints, sprains, and spasms. It can also treat herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, and many other back conditions. Traction is performed by skilled physical therapists and/or the use of mechanical units. If your back is bothering you, request an appointment at ProTailored Physical Therapy today to find out if traction could benefit you! Call our Fort Wayne physical therapy office today at 260-739-0300!
Lower back pain (LBP) is the most commonly reported form of pain. It is a major cause of medical expenses, work absenteeism, and disability. With traction, you can find some much-needed relief and get back to comfortably living your daily life.
Common Questions Regarding Traction
How does Traction work?
Traction works by providing a slight pull on the spine, which creates space on the joints, and takes pressure off the spine. It also stretches the muscles that help to support the spine.
What are the differences between Manual and Mechanical Traction?
Manual traction is performed by the therapist. With manual traction, the therapist can change the amount of force and the time performed. The therapist will typically perform manual traction first to see how your body responds before performing mechanical traction. Mechanical traction is done on a treatment table in our clinic and typically lasts 15 minutes at the end of your therapy session. The amount of pull or force provided will be programmed by your therapist at a force that is appropriate for your needs.
What does Traction feel like?
Traction can feel like a stretch to your spine. Lumbar traction focuses on the low back and cervical traction is performed on the neck. Traction can be a relaxing treatment technique and is often described by our patients as “a good pull”.
Is Traction appropriate for me?
Traction is typically used to treat those with facet disease, disc disease, disc impingement, sciatica, and other diagnoses related to the spine. Traction may not be appropriate for you if you have a history of osteoporosis. If you have a specific question regarding traction being appropriate for you, please reach out to our clinic.
How does traction work?
Traction relieves pressure on the spine and alleviates pain. Cervical traction and lumbar traction are similar, but they have a couple of key differences: with cervical traction, a gentle force is used to stretch or pull the head away from the neck. With lumbar traction, a gentle force is used to gently gap the pelvis from the lower back. Both of these methods are useful in manipulating the spine and providing relief.
If your back has been bothering you, don’t hesitate to request an appointment ProTailored Physical Therapy today. Call our Fort Wayne physical therapy office today at 260-739-0300! One of our highly trained Fort Wayne, IN physical therapists will design a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs. Don’t live with LBP – manual traction can help get you moving.
Visit our four clinic locations in North Fort Wayne, Northwest Fort Wayne, Southwest Fort Wayne, and Central Fort Wayne today!