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Traction Compared to Decompression Treatments

Although laypeople may consider traction and decompression as interchangeable treatments for lower back and neck pain, they have several major differences.

  1. Traction

    • Traction, in orthopedics, refers to the process of being pulled. This treatment utilizes a mechanical traction device, and has existed for centuries as a remedy for back and neck pain.

    Decompression

    • Decompression, also known as spinal decompression, releases pressure in the spinal discs causing pain in the neck and lower back. It can be accomplished surgically by use of lasers or surgical instruments, and non-surgically via a mechanical traction device.

    Major Differences

    • Traction, as a treatment, doesn't depend on decompression. Decompression treatments require traction, however, because traction provides the force that releases pressure. Despite traction's history, its straight pull draws criticism for going against the normal curvature of the spinal column, according to chiropractor and author Eric Kaplan. Decompression works on individual spinal discs, allowing the traction's pull to align with the natural curve of the spine. Today, traction has become synonymous with spinal decompression in a physiotherapy setting.

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