What Is Traction in Physiotherapy? | Sai Hospital, Haldwani

Back pain, neck stiffness, nerve compression, and spinal discomfort are among the most common reasons people visit a physiotherapy department. During treatment, many patients hear their therapist suggest “traction therapy.” This often leads to confusion or concern — Is it painful? Is it safe? Why is it needed?

At Sai Hospital, Haldwani, traction is a commonly used and well-controlled physiotherapy technique for spine-related conditions. This article explains in simple, patient-friendly language what traction is in physiotherapy, why it is done, how it works, and who benefits from it.

What Is Traction in Physiotherapy?

Traction in physiotherapy is a treatment technique in which a gentle pulling force is applied to the spine or a joint to stretch it and create space between the bones. In most cases, traction is used for the neck (cervical traction) or lower back (lumbar traction).

Simply put:
Traction helps reduce pressure on nerves, discs, and joints by gently separating spinal segments.

It is a non-surgical, non-invasive method used to relieve pain and improve movement.

Why Is Traction Done in Physiotherapy?

Traction is done to reduce mechanical pressure inside the spine. Many spine problems occur because nerves get compressed between vertebrae or discs bulge outward.

Traction helps by:

• Reducing nerve compression
• Decreasing disc pressure
• Relaxing tight muscles
• Improving blood flow
• Reducing pain and stiffness

It is often used along with exercises, heat therapy, and posture correction.

How Does Traction Work?

When traction is applied:

1. The space between spinal bones slightly increases
2. Pressure on compressed nerves reduces
3. Bulging or slipped discs may shift away from nerve roots
4. Tight muscles begin to relax
5. Pain signals decrease

This process gives the irritated nerves time to recover and heal.

Types of Traction in Physiotherapy

Traction can be applied in different ways depending on the condition.

Cervical Traction (Neck Traction)

Used for neck-related problems.

Common indications:

• Cervical spondylosis
• Neck pain
• Cervical disc bulge
• Radiating arm pain
• Nerve compression in the neck

It can be done:

• Manually by the physiotherapist
• Using a traction machine

Lumbar Traction (Lower Back Traction)

Used for lower back and leg-related pain.

Common indications:

• Slipped disc (lumbar disc prolapse)
• Sciatica
• Chronic low back pain
• Nerve root compression

Lumbar traction is usually machine-assisted for controlled force.

Manual Traction

• Done using the therapist’s hands
• Short-duration, controlled pull
• Often used during assessment or mild cases

Mechanical Traction

• Done using a traction machine
• Force, duration, and angle are precisely controlled
• Most commonly used method

Intermittent Traction

• Pull and release cycles
• Helps improve blood circulation
• Useful for nerve pain

Sustained Traction

• Continuous pull for a set time
• Used for disc-related problems

Conditions Treated With Traction

At Sai Hospital, Haldwani, traction is commonly used for:

• Slipped disc (cervical or lumbar)
• Cervical and lumbar spondylosis
• Sciatica
• Neck pain with arm tingling
• Back pain with leg radiation
• Nerve root compression
• Degenerative disc disease

Traction is not a standalone cure, but an effective part of a complete physiotherapy plan.

What Happens During a Traction Session?

A typical traction session includes:

1. Patient positioned comfortably (lying or sitting)
2. Harness or belt applied to the neck or lower back
3. Controlled traction force applied
4. Session lasts 10–20 minutes
5. Patient monitored throughout

Patients usually feel:

• Gentle pulling
• Stretching sensation
• Relief from pressure

Traction should never be painful.

Is Traction Safe?

Yes – when done under professional supervision.

At Sai Hospital, traction is performed only after:

• Proper diagnosis
• Medical clearance
• X-rays or MRI (if required)

The physiotherapist adjusts force based on:

• Age
• Body weight
• Condition severity
• Pain tolerance

Who Should Not Get Traction?

Traction is avoided or used cautiously in patients with:

• Fractures
• Severe osteoporosis
• Spinal infections
• Tumors of the spine
• Recent spinal surgery
• Pregnancy (lumbar traction)
• Severe instability of spine

Your physiotherapist will assess suitability before starting treatment.

How Many Traction Sessions Are Needed?

The number of sessions depends on the condition:

• Acute pain: 5-7 sessions
• Chronic disc problems: 10-15 sessions
• Severe nerve compression: longer treatment with exercises

Traction works best when combined with:

• Strengthening exercises
• Posture correction
• Core stability training

Benefits of Traction in Physiotherapy

• Reduces nerve pain
• Improves spinal mobility
• Relieves muscle spasms
• Decreases disc pressure
• Non-surgical pain relief
• Helps avoid surgery in many cases

Traction vs Surgery

Traction does not replace surgery in all cases, but it often helps patients avoid surgery when:

• Disc bulge is mild to moderate
• Nerve compression is not severe
• Symptoms respond well to conservative care

Your doctor decides the best approach.

Traction Therapy at Sai Hospital, Haldwani

Our physiotherapy department offers:

• Modern traction machines
• Trained physiotherapists
• Individualized treatment plans
• Safe and supervised therapy
• Integrated rehab with exercises

We focus on long-term recovery, not just temporary relief.

FAQs: What Is Traction in Physiotherapy?

1. Is traction painful?
No. It should feel like a gentle stretch, not pain.

2. Can traction cure a slipped disc?
It helps reduce symptoms and pressure, but works best with exercises.

3. How long does one session last?
Usually 10–20 minutes.

4. Is traction safe for elderly patients?
Yes, when done with low force and proper supervision.

5. Can traction be done daily?
Yes, in many cases, depending on the condition.

Conclusion

So, what is traction in physiotherapy?
It is a safe, non-invasive technique that uses a gentle pulling force to relieve pressure on the spine, reduce nerve compression, and ease pain caused by disc and joint problems.

At Sai Hospital, Haldwani, traction therapy is carefully planned and combined with exercises and posture correction to ensure effective, long-lasting relief. If you’re struggling with neck pain, back pain, or radiating nerve pain, consult our physiotherapy team – early treatment can help you recover faster and avoid surgery.