Mechanical Traction

What is Mechanical Traction?

Mechanical traction is one of the tools Dr. Neel Kumar uses as part of a broader chiropractic treatment plan for patients dealing with disc-related neck and back pain. Rather than a stand-alone fix, it's most effective as one piece of a coordinated approach that includes chiropractic adjustments and, when appropriate, physical therapy.

How Mechanical Intersegmental Traction Table Works

A mechanical intersegmental traction table applies a controlled, gentle pulling force to the spine, gradually increasing the space between vertebrae. That added space reduces pressure on spinal discs and the nerves that exit between them, which can ease the pain, numbness, or tingling associated with a bulging or herniated disc. This type of traction table uses 3 rollers at varying heights, that cause the spine to be elongated allowing for rehydration of the intervertebral discs.

Conditions It Can Help

• Cervical (neck) disc bulges and herniations
• Lumbar (low back) disc bulges and herniations
• Nerve compression causing radiating arm or leg pain
• Chronic muscle tension surrounding a compressed disc

What a Traction Session Feels Like

Most patients describe mechanical traction as a mild, steady stretch rather than a painful pull. Sessions are closely monitored and adjusted to your comfort level and diagnosis — traction is never applied without first understanding the specific level and cause of your spinal complaint.

How It Fits Into Your Care Plan

Dr. Kumar will determine whether traction is appropriate based on your exam, symptoms, and imaging, and will combine it with chiropractic adjustments, targeted exercise, and other modalities as needed to relieve pressure, reduce pain, and support long-term spinal health.

Living with neck or back pain that radiates, tingles, or won't let up? 

Spinal Traction can help certain conditions such as inter-vertebral disc bulges and disc herniations in the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine.

This type of treatment can reduce the pressure being placed upon the disc and help with pain relief and a reduction of symptoms.

Call or text (212) 245-5688 to schedule a spine evaluation.