Lumbar Traction at Home, Made Easy
Updated October 2026 · Written and fact-checked by the SmoothSpine product team · Our editorial standards
Quick answer
Lumbar traction gently stretches the lower spine. Here's how to do it at home without bulky equipment.
- Secure Shopify checkout
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- Free tracked shipping
What is lumbar traction?
Lumbar traction is a gentle stretch of the lower spine that creates a little more space between the vertebrae. Clinics use large machines; at home, people often turn to inversion tables or stretch belts.
Types of home lumbar traction devices
- Inversion tables: effective stretch, but bulky and you hang upside down.
- Traction belts: inflatable belts worn around the waist.
- Lie-on devices like SmoothSpine: rest on your back while the device supports a gentle stretch.
Why SmoothSpine is different
SmoothSpine adds soothing heat and deep massage on top of the traction stretch, so you relax more and enjoy each session. It needs no setup and stores under the bed.
Types of at-home lumbar traction
| Type | How it works | Ease of use |
|---|---|---|
| Inversion table | Gravity, head-down | Harder for older adults |
| Traction belt | Inflates around the waist | Moderate |
| Back stretcher board | Curved board you lie on | Easy |
| SmoothSpine | Curved device with heat and massage | Easy |
How to use traction safely
- Start with short sessions.
- Move slowly onto and off the device.
- Never force a stretch.
- Stop if pain spreads or increases.
Who should ask a doctor first
People with osteoporosis, recent spinal surgery, diagnosed disc problems, or who are pregnant. Red flags that need medical attention:
- Pain after a fall, accident or injury.
- Numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs or feet.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Pain with fever, or unexplained weight loss.
- Pain that is severe or getting worse over several weeks.
SmoothSpine at a glance
| Product | SmoothSpine Triple Fusion Massager 2.0 |
|---|---|
| Therapies | Heat, kneading massage, gentle lumbar traction |
| Session length | About 15 minutes, once or twice a day |
| Price | From $89.98 each (3-pack) · $99.97 single |
| Shipping | Free, tracked · US, UK, CA, AU, NZ and more |
| Guarantee | 90-day money-back guarantee |
| Payment | Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay (secure Shopify checkout) |
Frequently asked questions
What is a lumbar traction device?
A device that gently stretches the lower spine to relieve feelings of compression and stiffness.
Is home traction safe?
Gentle traction is used by many people at home. Ask your doctor first if you have a spinal condition.
How often should I use lumbar traction?
Short daily sessions of 10–15 minutes are a common starting point.