Decompression Therapy
Traction involves pulling two adjacent spinal segments apart along the Y-axis, which decreases or opposes forces. In essence, decompression is the outcome of traction.

For decompression to be effective, the force applied must separate the spinal segments by at least 3mm. Traction affects the vertebrae, discs, muscles, tendons, ligaments, capsules, and nerve roots.

Spinal traction is a type of decompression therapy that alleviates pressure on the spine. It can be performed either manually or mechanically and is used to treat herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, and various other back conditions. However, spinal decompression therapy differs from traction and is significantly more advanced.