Methods of Spinal Decompression

Spinal traction can be accomplished in a number of different ways.

Let us walk through different methods of spinal traction including massage chairs. This can be a bending force or a pulling force. When looking at spinal traction, the key is to exert a force which stretches the soft tissues. Most people relate to traction as a pulling force.

Spinal decompression machines have been used with patients lying on their backs. They are attached to the machine and then an extension force is used to stretch both ends of their spine simultaneously. When using a pulling force across the length of the spine, a spinal decompression machine must stretch each soft tissue area between all the cervical discs simultaneously.

Inversion therapy is another method commonly used to provide traction of the spine. The basic idea behind inversion therapy is to suspend you upside down by your feet. You can either wear boots or lay flat on an in version bed. With the boots, one must lock them onto a bar which requires a little gymnastics.

Inversion therapy uses gravity to affect the force. The patient’s own weight is used to help stretch out the spine. Since the feet are held in place, the force is applied by both the angle of tilt and the patient’s own weight.

Roller tables are used to effect mechanical traction. A roller table is a long flat table to accommodate the patient lying completely flat. Rollers are contained inside the table and are used to apply mechanical traction.

Massage chairs work on the same theory as roller tables. The weight of the patient and the angle of the recline determine the force exerted on the disc. Unlike a roller table, however, massage chairs are able to adjust their angle.

The soft tissues are then stretched which is the definition of mechanical traction. Massage chairs are also able to provide a number of other treatments in addition to spinal traction. Additionally heating elements are placed throughout the chair soothing warmth can be applied as needed. Massage chairs also have stretching of the lower body. Massage chairs also come with MP3 players which can provide a relaxing environment for the patient.