How to Put Someone on Lumbar Traction

The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae, with spinal nerves exiting each side. Between each vertebra is a disk that prevents the bones from rubbing on each other. Spinal nerves can become compressed with arthritic changes or by disks that have slipped into the nerve space. Symptoms of nerve compression include back pain, pain down the leg on the side of the compression, numbness or tingling and weakness in the leg muscles. Lumbar traction uses pneumatic pressure to length the spine and relieve pressure on the nerves.

Things You'll Need

• Home lumbar traction unit
• Watch or clock
• Pillow

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Instructions

• 1

  Familiarize yourself with the unit before you use it. The unit consists of a platform with two stabilization belts that hold your upper torso stable as the spine is stretched. Pneumatic pressure will cause the lower portion of the unit to move horizontally, applying traction to your lower spine. Lay the traction unit face-up on a firm surface. Position the upper and lower stabilization straps out to each side. Place the hand pump on the side of your dominant hand.

• 2

  Kneel down in a hands-and-knees position next to the machine. Slowly turn and sit down with your hips at the level of the bottom stabilization belt. Place the pillow underneath your knees and lie down.

• 3

  Strap the lower stabilization belt across your hips, then fasten the upper belt across your chest. Tighten the belts until they are snug but you can fit one finger underneath.

• 4

  Turn the hand pump to the "pump" position. Begin pumping air into the device in small increments. Continue until you feel a stretch in your lower back. Do not stretch to the point of pain. To release some air, turn to the "release" position. When you reach the desired level on tension, turn to the "hold" position.

• 5

  Use the device for 15 minutes, then release the pressure and unbuckle the stabilization belts. Lie flat for several minutes before standing.