What Is Flexion-Distraction?
Flexion-Distraction is a manual chiropractic technique that uses a specialized table to create controlled bending and gentle traction in the spine. The movement reduces compressive loading during treatment and helps a practitioner assess and address restricted spinal motion. Practitioners commonly apply the technique to the lumbar spine, although treatment depends on the person’s condition.
Quick Facts About Flexion-Distraction
Category
Manual spinal treatment technique
Used for
Restricted spinal motion and compressive loading
Common confusion
Mechanical traction alone
Also called
Cox technique, Flexion distraction technique
Often discussed with
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Key Takeaways About Flexion-Distraction
- The technique combines spinal flexion with gentle traction.
- A specialized table guides the treatment movement.
- Flexion-Distraction is not the same as mechanical traction alone.
How Flexion-Distraction Works
Flexion-Distraction uses a table with moving sections to guide controlled spinal flexion and gentle traction. The practitioner supports the body and directs movement through a selected region, such as the lower back. The table’s motion helps create space and movement without relying on a quick, forceful thrust.
Related glossary terms: Axial Traction, Traction Table, Lumbar Spine.
The practitioner checks spinal motion before and during the technique. Treatment may focus on a restricted segment while the surrounding areas remain supported. Spinal decompression therapy may include Flexion-Distraction when the clinical plan calls for guided movement and reduced compressive loading. The approach differs from traction alone because the table and practitioner coordinate bending with traction.
From the Advanced Injury Care Clinic team
When we use Flexion-Distraction within Spinal Decompression Therapy, we first review the person’s symptoms, movement, and relevant history. We then select the treatment position and table movement that fit the area being assessed, while checking comfort and motion throughout the procedure.
Flexion-Distraction in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with lower-back stiffness may receive Flexion-Distraction on a table that gently bends and lengthens the lumbar region. The practitioner observes how the area moves and adjusts the technique to match the treatment plan.
Related Services
Related Terms
Axial Traction
Axial traction is a therapeutic pulling force applied along the length of the spine. The force…
Traction Table
Traction Table is a specialized treatment table that supports controlled pulling forces along the spine. The…
Lumbar Spine
Lumbar Spine is the lower section of the vertebral column, located between the thoracic spine and…
Joint Mobility
Joint Mobility is the available movement at a joint and the ease with which that joint…
Advanced Injury Care Clinic
Have Questions About Flexion-Distraction?
Contact Advanced Injury Care Clinic for practical guidance on Flexion-Distraction and related chiropractor work in Brentwood.