Abstract: A device for applying traction to the cervical vertebrae to reduce fracture dislocation of the cervical spine, said device including: a support surface adapted to support a patient lying upon his or her back; a load transmitting means adapted to be connected at one end to a patient under treatment and lying upon said support surface; the other end of said load transmitting means being adapted to be connected to a load applying means; said load applying means being movable along a regular or irregular curve to any of a range of predetermined positions between a first position which places the patient's cervical spine in flexion and a second position which places the patient's cervical spine in extension.