SPINAL TRACTION/DECOMPRESSION

Spinal traction therapy Experience relief from your lower back pain! PhysioNow is happy to offer Spinal Traction/Decompression Services at select PhysioNow clinics. This treatment is non-invasive and can be used effectively alongside Physiotherapy Treatment to help you achieve relief from your lower back condition.

WHAT IS SPINAL TRACTION/DECOMPRESSION THERAPY?

Spinal traction or decompression is the act of applying a force to the back to increase the space between the bones in the spine (vertebrae). Ultimately, this will help to decrease pressure on the structures in between the vertebrae such as the spinal discs and the nerve roots. In lower back conditions which involve herniation, injury, or excessive compression on these structures, this can provide immediate relief from symptoms.

WHAT DOES A SPINAL TRACTION/DECOMPRESSION SESSION LOOK LIKE?

Our clinic uses a mechanical traction machine to apply the force to your body. First, you will be lying comfortably on your back on the treatment table with your legs bent and elevated. Next, the Physiotherapist or Physiotherapist Assistant will assist you in fastening a large belt/strap around your waist. This strap is connected by a rope to the device that will create the traction force on your body. When the machine turns on, you will feel like the lower half of your body is gently being pulled away from the top half. It should not be painful and should feel quite comfortable. Sessions are typically 20-30 minutes long, but the amount of traction force, how long the force is on for, and how many cycles of traction you go through will be determined by your individual characteristics and specific condition.

WHO BENEFITS FROM SPINAL TRACTION/DECOMPRESSION THERAPY?

Individuals who experience chronic lower back pain may benefit from spinal traction. Oftentimes, it is used for relief from symptoms in conditions like sciatica or other types of radiating nerve pains, disc herniations, and stenosis. Physical therapists have used this technique for lower back pain for many years, and some patients respond very well to it. It is always recommended that spinal traction be combined with Physiotherapy treatment to promote the best long-term results. Physiotherapy treatment should include a home exercise program, including stretching, strengthening, and functional movement restoration.

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, spinal discomfort, or are recovering from an injury, Spinal Traction and Decompression Therapy at PhysioNow could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation to take the first step toward pain relief.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT SPINALTRACTION/DECOMPRESSION

Is spinal traction safe to use?

Yes, for most individuals, spinal traction is safe to use. Some spinal conditions make you ineligible for this treatment, such as rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, severe spinal instabilities like fractures, infections, cancers, tumours, or osteoporosis. Your Physiotherapist will ensure they perform a thorough assessment first to make sure the treatment is appropriate for you.

Additionally, the traction force is modified for each person relative to their body weight. Ultimately, this ensures the treatment is a comfortable experience.

Who should not use spinal traction?

There are certain conditions that should not undergo spinal traction/decompression services. For example, individuals with acute fractures, spinal instabilities, osteoporosis, pregnant women and more. You will undergo a screening and assessment by a Registered Physiotherapist first to ensure your appropriateness for the treatment.

Does traction fix disc bulges?

Spinal traction does not reverse a disc bulge. However, it can provide relief from symptoms and pain while an acute disc herniation heals. By providing decompression forces to the area of the bulge, it can reduce the pressure of the bulge on other structures in the area.

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Clinic Locations

PhysioNow now has 10 different locations across the GTA.

We are located in Applewood, Erin Mills, Lorne Park, Hurontario-Eglinton, Maple Grove, Etobicoke South, Burlington, Creditview-Bristol, Clarkson Village and Oakville North.

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