Intermittent mechanical traction as a therapeutic method represents the stretching of certain parts of the spinal column using mechanical force to achieve spinal decompression.
Traction is applied on the table in a supine position, (or alternately in the case of computerized spinal decompression, prone or face down position) and the stretch is performed rhythmically in short time intervals of 10 to 60 seconds, lasting from 10 to 30 minutes. Several possible outcome from this physical therapy modalities includes, distraction of intervertebral space, drawing back of the protruded disc back towards its original place and widening of the intervertebral foramen between vertebrae. All of these actions will reduce symptoms such as sciatica, low back and and other neurological symptoms associated with nerve root compression.