 Much of neck and spinal pain is caused by the compression of spinal nerves, according to Dr. Jeff Fisher, an Irvine, California-based chiropractor with more than 30 years of experience. This compression can stem from a chronic condition, acute injury, or simply aging. Traction is the most effective way to relax, stretch, and decompress the spine and surrounding muscles and ligaments of the neck and back, Dr. Fisher explains.