How is spinal decompression therapy different than traction?
A. Spinal Decompression Therapy is different than traction in that it produces a vacuum-like effect within the disc. Traction only stretches muscles. The vacuum effect accomplishes two things: it pulls the disc material which may have protruded outside the disc back into the disc, which, in turn, takes pressure off the spinal nerves and reduces pain. The vacuum also stimulates blood supply to the disc which results in a healing response.
