Lumbar bulging disc traction methods need to be performed through the use of a traction bed. The main cause of lumbar bulging discs is the gradual degeneration of the discs with age, which decreases their elasticity and tension, thus reducing their ability to resist loads and making them susceptible to injury. On top of the reduced elasticity of the lumbar discs themselves, disc herniation is also likely to occur if the lumbar posture is chronically inappropriate or if the lumbar spine is in a flexed position. The patient lies supine on a traction bed with a wide bag secured to both sides of the lumbar spine, and is slowly pulled to either side with an external force to relieve the compressed disc. Traction is indicated for the early stages of bulging and herniation. The nucleus pulposus is not completely detached from the annulus fibrosus. With traction therapy, the nucleus pulposus can be fully integrated into the annulus fibrosus. In the advanced stages of herniation and prolapse, the nucleus pulposus has completely detached from the annulus fibrosus. At this point traction will not relieve the symptoms so that the nucleus pulposus remains contained within the annulus. Instead, it will become more severe and this is when surgery is needed.