Cervical and lumbopelvic traction. To stretch or not to stretch

Cervical traction and lumbopelvic traction are commonly prescribed for relief of neck pain and low back pain, respectively. Scientific validation of efficacy is scant, but considerable empirical benefit has been observed. In the absence of contraindications and with appropriate application, cervical and lumbopelvic traction may be used to provide symptomatic relief of neck and low back pain.