Traction can be provided manually as a mobilization by applying a gentle pulling force to a limb, a neck or a lower back in view of relieving spasm, muscle tension, pain and radiating symptoms and to improve movement.
It can also be used mechanically where a set amount of force in lbs can be applied, via a machine, to a certain body part for a specific amount of time. Most commonly, traction is used for the neck and low back with clients that present disc problems causing radiating pain and numbness into the arms or legs. It can help resolve disc bulging, nerve impingement and reduce the symptoms caused by a herniated disc or sciatica.
