Spinal Traction Therapy

Near Glen Carbon

Spinal traction therapy is a non-surgical treatment that alleviates spine pressure and nerve compression, enhancing mobility. At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, it aids patients with back pain, disc issues, sciatica, and stiffness in recovering safely.

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SPINAL TRACTION THERAPY?

DECOMPRESSION & PRESSURE RELIEF

Spinal traction therapy works by gently stretching the spine to reduce pressure on spinal discs, joints, and surrounding nerves. Over time, spinal compression from posture, repetitive stress, injury, or disc degeneration can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and nerve irritation. Traction helps create space between vertebrae, allowing compressed structures to unload and relieve tension within the spine.


This decompression effect can be especially beneficial for individuals dealing with disc bulges, herniations, or pinched nerves that cause pain to radiate into the arms or legs. By reducing mechanical stress on the spine, traction therapy helps calm irritated tissues and create a more favorable environment for healing. Many patients notice reduced pressure, improved comfort, and easier movement following consistent traction therapy.

SCIATICA & NERVE PAIN SUPPORT

Nerve-related pain such as sciatica often occurs when spinal structures place pressure on nerve roots. Spinal traction therapy helps reduce this pressure by gently separating vertebrae and decreasing irritation around affected nerves. This can help alleviate symptoms such as radiating leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.


Traction therapy is commonly used for patients experiencing lower back pain that travels into the hips or legs, as well as neck-related nerve symptoms affecting the shoulders or arms. When combined with chiropractic adjustments and movement-based rehab, traction therapy supports nerve health and helps restore normal communication between the spine and the rest of the body—leading to improved comfort and function over time.

IMPROVED MOBILITY & DISC HEALTH

Healthy spinal movement depends on proper disc hydration and joint mobility. Spinal traction therapy helps encourage fluid movement into spinal discs by reducing compression and improving circulation within the spine. This process supports disc health by promoting nutrient exchange and maintaining flexibility in spinal structures.


As spinal mobility improves, patients often experience reduced stiffness and greater ease with daily movements such as bending, twisting, and standing. Traction therapy can be especially helpful for individuals with chronic back stiffness, postural stress, or degenerative spinal changes. By improving spinal motion and disc health, traction therapy supports long-term movement quality and reduces the likelihood of recurring flare-ups.

NON-SURGICAL REHABILITATION & RECOVERY

Spinal traction therapy is a non-invasive option for individuals seeking alternatives to injections or surgery. Treatments are controlled, comfortable, and tailored to each patient’s condition and tolerance. Rather than forcing the spine into motion, traction applies gradual, precise stretching to support healing without excessive strain.


At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, traction therapy is used as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes chiropractic care, corrective exercise, and movement retraining. Our goal is not just to relieve pain temporarily, but to restore proper spinal mechanics, improve stability, and help patients return to work, exercise, and daily life with confidence and resilience.

HOW IT WORKS

  • What is spinal traction therapy?

    Spinal traction therapy is a treatment that gently stretches the spine to reduce pressure on discs, joints, and nerves, helping relieve pain and improve mobility.

  • What conditions can traction therapy help treat?

    Traction is commonly used for disc bulges, herniations, sciatica, pinched nerves, chronic back pain, neck pain, and spinal stiffness.

  • What does spinal traction feel like?

    Most patients feel a gentle stretching or pulling sensation. The treatment should be comfortable and relaxing, not painful.

  • Is spinal traction safe?

    Yes, when performed under professional supervision. We evaluate your condition to ensure traction is appropriate and safe for you.

  • How long does a traction session take?

    Most traction sessions last between 10–20 minutes and are often combined with other therapies during your visit.

Superior Chiropractic & Rehab provides non-surgical solutions for back pain, sciatica, disc-related conditions, and spinal mobility issues throughout Glen Carbon, Edwardsville, and surrounding communities. Led by Dr. Brad Polen, our team focuses on identifying the root cause of pain and restoring proper spinal function.


Through a personalized combination of chiropractic care, spinal traction therapy, rehabilitation strategies, and corrective exercise, we help active adults reduce pain, move better, and return to daily life with strength and confidence.