Traction Therapy Overview

Introduction

• Traction is a decompression therapy that aims to alleviate pain, reduce spinal compression, and improve spinal health.
• Two types of traction exist: mechanical and manual.
• Mechanical traction uses devices to stretch the spine and muscles.
• Manual traction uses specialized therapists to stretch the spine and muscles.

Clinical Efficacy of Mechanical Traction

• A meta-analysis explored the clinical effect of mechanical traction on lumbar disc herniation (LDH).
• Mechanical traction reduced pain (measured by VAS) and disability (measured by ODI) compared to conventional physical therapy.
• No significant improvement was found in spinal motion with traction.
• Traction can be used alongside other physical therapy treatments.

Cervical Radiculopathy & Traction Therapy

• Cervical traction (CT) is a frequently used treatment for cervical radiculopathy (CR).
• A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the effectiveness of adding traction to physical therapy for CR.
• Mechanical and manual traction showed significant short and intermediate-term pain reduction but lesser effects on function/disability.

Mechanism of Action

• Traction creates a distraction force that decompresses spinal structures and relieves pressure.
• The force can be static or intermittent, with adjustable tension, duration, and frequency.
• Traction aims to restore proper spinal alignment, increase intervertebral space, reduce nerve compression, improve circulation, and accelerate healing.
• Physiological effects include pain relief, improved spinal mobility, enhanced circulation, reduced nerve irritation, and non-invasive treatment options.

Common Terms

• Progressive Traction: Tension increases gradually.
• Regressive Traction: Tension decreases gradually.
• Static Traction: Steady traction applied for a set duration.
• Intermittent Traction: Alternating between maximum and minimum tension levels.
• Cyclic Traction: Continuous repetition of progressive and regressive phases.

Indication

• Protruding, bulging, or herniated disc
• Degenerative disc disease
• Posterior facet syndrome
• Radicular pain
• Spinal root impingement
• Hypomobility
• Joint pain
• Discogenic pain

Contraindication

• Structural disease (secondary to tumor or infection)
• Vascular compromise
• Acute strains, sprains, and inflammation
• Joint instability of the spine
• Pregnancy
• Osteoporosis
• Hiatus hernia
• Cardiac or pulmonary problems
• Claustrophobia

Patient Preparation

• Ensure the patient interrupt switch is connected and functional.
• Position the patient on a suitable traction table.
• Fit the traction harness correctly.
• Attach the accessory clip to the harness.
• Explain the use of the patient interrupt switch.

Operating Controls - Home Screen

• Displays traction meter, time remaining, treatment status.
• Offers progressive, traction, and regressive settings.
• Provides minimum and maximum traction levels.
• Includes rest time and hold time options.
• Presents clinical resources.
• Features stop, pause, and start buttons.

Adjusting Traction During Treatment

• Use the pause button to adjust patient position or harness.
• Press stop or the patient interrupt switch to end treatment immediately.
• Adjust traction parameters through the touch screen during the session.

Maintenance (Cleaning - Calibration)

• Disconnect the unit from power before cleaning.
• Clean with a lint-free cloth moistened with water and mild antibacterial soap.
• For more sterile cleaning, use an antimicrobial cleaner.
• Clean the touch screen with a soft damp cloth; avoid alcohol or chlorine-based solvents.
• Annual factory calibration is required.
• A quarterly preventive maintenance schedule is recommended.

Practical Application (Traction Set Up)

• Determine body weight: 7%-10% for cervical traction.
• Adjust neck flexion: 10 degrees (upper); 15 degrees (middle); 20 degrees (lower).
• Remove eyeglasses and any other cervical region items.

Patient Experience

• Traction therapy typically involves a stretching sensation.
• Patients often describe a feeling of relaxation.