Sep 16, 2025
Exploring Traction in Physiotherapy: Techniques & Benefits
Traction therapy is a proven physiotherapy technique designed to reduce pressure, restore mobility, and support long-term recovery for those experiencing back or neck pain. Whether you’re dealing with disc issues, sciatica, or chronic stiffness, traction can be an effective part of a holistic rehabilitation plan.
At Proactive Health, your trusted Richmond physiotherapy clinic, our experienced physiotherapists use traction therapy as part of customized treatment programs to help patients move and feel better.
What Is Traction Therapy in Physiotherapy?
Traction therapy works by gently stretching the spine or joints to relieve compression and tension. This decompression helps improve alignment, increase circulation, and reduce pressure on affected nerves.
At Proactive Health in Richmond, our physiotherapists may use one or both of the following types of traction:
Manual Traction: Performed by your physiotherapist using controlled, hands-on techniques to gently stretch and mobilize the spine or joints.
Mechanical Traction: Utilizes specialized equipment to apply precise, consistent pressure for a longer duration, creating space between vertebrae.
Both methods are designed to promote natural healing, improve flexibility, and reduce discomfort caused by nerve compression or joint restriction.
Conditions That Benefit from Traction Therapy
At our Richmond physiotherapy clinic, traction therapy is commonly recommended for patients experiencing:
Herniated or bulging discs
Sciatica or nerve impingement
Degenerative disc disease
Cervical or lumbar spondylosis
Chronic back or neck pain
Facet joint dysfunction
After a thorough assessment, your Proactive Health physiotherapist will determine whether traction is suitable for your specific needs and create a plan that complements your overall treatment goals.
Benefits of Traction Therapy
Traction offers multiple benefits when performed under the care of a licensed physiotherapist. Some of the most common include:
Reduced Nerve Compression:
Traction gently creates space between vertebrae, relieving pressure on nerves and reducing radiating pain or tingling.Enhanced Mobility & Flexibility:
As stiffness decreases, patients often experience a greater range of motion and improved daily function.Promotes Natural Healing:
By improving circulation, traction supports nutrient flow to spinal discs and surrounding tissues, aiding recovery.Decreases Muscle Tension:
The stretching effect of traction helps relax tight or overactive muscles, reducing spasms and improving comfort.Drug-Free Pain Relief:
Traction therapy at Proactive Health provides a natural, non-invasive way to manage pain without medication.
What to Expect During Traction Therapy at Proactive Health
When you visit Proactive Health in Richmond for traction therapy, your session begins with a personalized assessment to ensure safe and effective treatment.
You’ll be comfortably positioned on a traction table or treatment bed.
Your physiotherapist will adjust the level of tension and duration to suit your condition.
Sessions typically last 10–20 minutes and are completely pain-free.
Many patients describe the treatment as relaxing, with noticeable relief after just a few sessions. Your physiotherapist may also combine traction with manual therapy, stretching, or targeted exercises to maximize your recovery outcomes.
Is Traction Therapy Safe for Everyone?
Traction is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, but it may not be suitable for individuals with conditions such as severe osteoporosis, fractures, or spinal instability. That’s why it’s essential to consult a registered physiotherapist at Proactive Health Richmond before beginning any traction therapy program.
Experience Trusted Traction Therapy in Richmond, BC
At Proactive Health, we’re committed to helping you regain mobility and live pain-free. Our Richmond physiotherapy clinic combines advanced techniques like traction therapy with evidence-based care to support lasting results.
If you’re struggling with back, neck, or nerve pain, our team can help you determine if traction therapy is right for you.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free movement.