MANUAL TRACTION
WHAT IS MANUAL TRACTION?
Traction describes a pulling or drawing action which causes a stretch or separation of body parts by an applied force. The force can be continuous or intermittent and it is in a direction to pull joint surfaces apart.
Manual traction is when a physiotherapist has their hands on the patient and uses their body weight to apply the traction force. The period of traction generally doesn’t last very long.
Manual traction sounds quite scary however it is a safe treatment option that can be effective for certain conditions. All our physiotherapists are fully qualified and able to perform safe manual traction.
WHEN SHOULD MANUAL TRACTION BE AVOIDED?
Manual traction should be avoided in the presence of infection or a tumour local to the area that traction would be applied t.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN MANUAL TRACTION TREAT?
In physiotherapy treatment traction is often used on the cervical or lumbar spine. Traction was traditionally recommended for nerve root compression treatment as the intervertebral foramen was narrowed or the disc material had herniated though the evidence is poor.
Your physiotherapist will carry out a full subjective and objective assessment when you first come for treatment. Following assessment, a tailor made treatment programme will be provided which may include manual traction as a treatment option if your physiotherapist thinks it is indicated. Manual traction is often used alongside other treatment methods such as exercises.
Manual traction can treat low back pain, cervical pain or pain that radiates to other parts of the body which is being caused by a disc protrusion between the vertebral bodies or if there are any degenerative changes.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MANUAL TRACTION?
Manual traction can pull vertebral bodies apart, glide and distract the facet joints, stretch spinal musculature or widen the intervertebral foreamen. Manual traction aids:
Pain relief
Decreased stiffness
Improved range of movement
Don't Let Pain Win!
Our Expert Physiotherapists in Witham and Chelmsford specialise in providing the latest treatments and techniques in order to get you pain free as soon as possible, cure the cause of your pain and help you to return to pre-injury levels of activity.
Furthermore, we'll also give you a bespoke exercise and rehabilitation program, and advise you on how to prevent re-injury and remain pain free.
Get in touch with us now on 01245 830280 or 07980 898212 or click below to book online!
Same day and emergency appointments available most of the time.
Insurance
At Farrell Physiotherapy we work with some of the uk's top insurance companies to ensure you're covered.
We can accept payment from AXA (PPP), Bupa, PruHealth, simplyhealth and Standard Life, if you have any questions about alternative payment methods, please get in touch with us using the contact form at the bottom of the page and we'll get back to you asap!
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday
6am to 9pm
Saturdays
9am to 12pm
Same day & Emergency appointments available most times.
WITHAM
Witham Leisure Centre, Spinks Ln, Witham, Essex, CM8 1EP
GET DIRECTIONS
CHELMSFORD
Get In Touch
If you have any questions prior to booking just send us a message using the form and we’ll be in touch asap.
If you would prefer to talk to us on the phone we can be reached on 01245 830280 or 07980 989212 during business hours.