At Momentum Physio in Maple Ridge, mechanical spinal traction—often called spinal decompression therapy—is one of the evidence-based tools we use to help patients experiencing back pain, neck pain, disc issues, and nerve compression. This treatment gently stretches the spine using a manual or motorized traction device, creating space between the vertebrae and reducing pressure on sensitive spinal structures.

If you’re struggling with sciatica, disc herniation, pinched nerves, or chronic spinal tension, mechanical spinal traction may be an effective, non-invasive treatment option. Below, we break down the key benefits based on both physiological and clinical outcomes.

1. Reduction of Nerve Compression

Mechanical traction helps widen the spaces between vertebrae, reducing pressure on irritated or compressed spinal nerves.
This is especially beneficial for conditions such as:

• Sciatica
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Nerve root impingement from disc herniation or bone spurs

Patients often experience decreased radiating pain and improved numbness or tingling.

2. Decreased Disc Protrusion

Traction can create a gentle negative pressure inside the intervertebral discs. This may help retract herniated or bulging disc material toward its natural position.
This process relieves irritation on the surrounding nerve roots and supports improved disc health.

3. Improved Spinal Mobility and Alignment

By stretching tight muscles, ligaments, and joint capsules, mechanical spinal traction can:

• Increase spinal flexibility
• Improve posture
• Restore more natural movement patterns

Patients dealing with stiffness or chronic tension often feel noticeably more mobile after treatment.

4. Enhanced Nutrient Exchange in the Discs

Intervertebral discs depend on movement and pressure changes to receive nutrients, since they have limited blood supply.
Spinal decompression may help improve fluid exchange, supporting tissue healing and slowing degenerative changes.

5. Pain Relief

Mechanical spinal traction helps reduce mechanical pressure on pain-sensitive structures including:

• Spinal discs
• Nerve roots
• Facet joints

It may also stimulate mechanoreceptors that help “turn down” pain signals through the gate control theory.

6. Muscle Relaxation

Traction reduces muscle guarding and spasms by gently stretching overstressed paraspinal muscles.
This promotes relaxation, reduces tension, and improves mobility—making it easier to move without discomfort.

7. Postural and Functional Improvement

Regular traction sessions can improve overall spinal alignment and biomechanics, particularly for individuals with long-term postural stress.
Benefits include:

• Better functional movement
• Less compensatory strain
• Reduced risk of symptom recurrence

8. Works Well With Other Physiotherapy Treatments

Mechanical spinal traction is often combined with other therapies at Momentum Physio for optimized results, including:

• Exercise therapy
• Manual therapy
• Intramuscular stimulation (IMS)
• Electrotherapy

Traction can reduce pain enough to help patients better tolerate strengthening and mobility exercises.

Common Conditions Treated With Mechanical Spinal Traction

This therapy may be recommended for patients diagnosed with:

• Cervical or lumbar disc herniation
• Degenerative disc disease
• Facet joint dysfunction
• Mild to moderate spinal stenosis
• Nerve root compression or radiculopathy
• Chronic back or neck pain
• Muscle spasm or spinal tightness

When Traction Is NOT Appropriate

Mechanical spinal traction is not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include:

• Spinal fractures
• Spinal malignancy or infection
• Severe osteoporosis
• Acute inflammatory conditions

Our physiotherapists in Maple Ridge always assess each patient thoroughly to ensure traction is a safe and effective option.

Considering Mechanical Spinal Traction in Maple Ridge?

At Momentum Physio, we personalize every traction session based on your diagnosis, comfort, and treatment goals. If you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, disc issues, or nerve symptoms, traction may help you move and feel better.

Contact us at Momentum Physio Therapy to find out if mechanical spinal traction is right for you! Book assessment>>