Numerous studies have validated the effectiveness of mechanical traction for lumbar decompression, making it a cornerstone of our treatment at Simply Move Chiropractic. One such study, published in the Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine, conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to evaluate the benefits of mechanical traction on patients suffering from lumbar disc herniation. The results were compelling: the study found that patients who underwent mechanical traction experienced significant reductions in pain, as measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and improvements in functional disability, as assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) . These findings underscore the value of mechanical traction in relieving the debilitating symptoms associated with lumbar disc issues.

Additionally, a systematic review published in the Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal took a closer look at the specific benefits of supine lumbar traction, which is the technique we use at Simply Move Chiropractic. This review analyzed multiple randomized controlled trials and found that when supine mechanical traction was added to a patient’s treatment plan, there were significant short-term improvements in both pain and disability. The study noted that supine traction, in particular, was more effective compared to other forms of traction, such as prone traction, likely due to the patient’s relaxed position during treatment . This allows for more consistent and evenly distributed traction force, which enhances the therapeutic outcomes.

These studies provide a robust scientific foundation for the use of supine lumbar traction as a treatment for lumbar decompression. They demonstrate not only the effectiveness of this technique in reducing pain and improving function but also its safety and applicability as part of a comprehensive chiropractic care plan.