Abstract: A lumbar traction apparatus which includes a lower support attachable to a patient's pelvis and an upper support attachable to a patient's lumbar region. A pair of independent traction assemblies are provided with each spaced laterally from the other and each spanning between the supports. Each of the traction assemblies includes a vertically extending rod operatively connected to a raising mechanism housed in the lower support, with the traction assemblies serving to separate the supports thereby causing traction of the patient. Each of the raising mechanics are provided with a lever connected to the lower support and pivotable to raise incrementally a first plurality of thin metal caged plates on its rod with the plates being biased against a spring. Each of the raising mechanisms are provided with a release plate for enabling the patient to release traction thereof. When the raising mechanism is engaged it causes the upper support to slide up slowly on the rods thus producing the traction.