Flexion-Distraction, Traction, and Joint Mobilization for Bulging Discs

Flexion-Distraction, Traction, and Joint Mobilization for Bulging Discs
Presented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, Soft Touch Chiropractic – Porter Ranch, CA

Why these gentle spinal methods matter Bulging or herniated discs often compress nearby nerves, causing back pain, sciatica, or leg numbness. Flexion-distraction, mechanical traction, and joint mobilization are gentle, non-surgical techniques that decompress the spine, restore mobility, and improve circulation in the affected joints.
Research shows that controlled flexion-distraction and traction lower pressure inside the intervertebral disc, helping reduce irritation of nerve roots and ease pain naturally.

How flexion-distraction and traction help

• Flexion-Distraction (Cox Technique): The doctor uses a specialized flexion-extension table to slowly stretch and flex the lumbar spine, reducing pressure on bulging discs.
• Mechanical Traction: Provides a gentle pulling force that elongates the spine, creating more space between vertebrae.
• Joint Mobilization: Involves light, rhythmic movements that restore normal motion to stiff joints, improving flexibility and allowing muscles and discs to move more freely.

Biomechanical studies confirm that flexion-distraction reduces intradiscal pressure and enhances nutrient flow to spinal tissues, while clinical studies demonstrate short-term pain relief and improved range of motion.

Benefits of joint mobilization Joint mobilization complements flexion-distraction by targeting the facet joints, sacroiliac joints, and soft tissues surrounding the spine.
Key benefits include:

• Improved spinal alignment and movement quality
• Decreased muscle guarding and tension
• Enhanced circulation and nutrient delivery to joint surfaces
• Faster functional recovery when combined with therapeutic exercises

Evidence from manual therapy research supports that mobilization reduces pain perception through mechanical and neurophysiological effects, making it a perfect companion to decompression techniques.

Clinical research overview

• Flexion-Distraction Studies: RCTs show significant short-term pain reduction and functional improvement versus exercise-only care.
• Traction Meta-Analyses: Demonstrate modest short-term improvements in pain and function for lumbar disc herniation.
• Joint Mobilization Evidence: Manual mobilization helps normalize spinal motion segments, reduce pain intensity, and enhance proprioception when combined with exercise.

Who benefits most

• Patients with mild to moderate disc bulges, radiculopathy, or chronic low-back stiffness
• Individuals who wish to avoid injections or surgery
• Those with restricted spinal movement due to muscle tightness or joint dysfunction

Combination therapy—flexion-distraction, traction, mobilization, and specific strengthening—often produces superior functional outcomes compared with one modality alone.

Treatment frequency and expectations

• Sessions: 2–3 per week initially
• Duration: 10–30 minutes per session
• Typical results: noticeable reduction in leg or back pain within several visits

While many patients report relief quickly, full recovery usually requires integrating exercise, posture correction, and lifestyle changes.

Safety first 
Flexion-distraction and mobilization are low-force and well-tolerated, but contraindications include spinal fracture, infection, severe osteoporosis, or cancer affecting the spine. Always undergo proper evaluation and imaging before treatment.

In summary, Flexion-distraction, traction, and joint mobilization provide a safe, research-supported, and non-invasive path to relieve pressure on bulging discs and restore mobility. When paired with personalized therapeutic exercise, these methods can help you move, sit, and sleep more comfortably—without relying on surgery or heavy medication.

If you’re struggling with low-back pain or a bulging disc, contact Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh at Soft Touch Chiropractic in Porter Ranch, CA.
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We specialize in gentle chiropractic techniques, including flexion-distraction, traction, and joint mobilization, to help you heal naturally.

📞818-831-0100 Call today to schedule your evaluation and start feeling better!
https://www.porterranchchiropractic.net/

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