Abstract: In a couch 10 of adjustable inclination for body extension in a head-down position with a couch carrier 12 and a support table 14 securable on the carrier 12 in different inclinations and provided with a foot and/or calf retaining device 96; 102, it is proposed that the body support length a+b+c between the retaining device 96 and the head rest 128 is adjustable continuously or in fine stages according to the increasing body extension, with the inclined table 14 occupied in a head-down position. Thus it is possible to achieve a protective traction treatment.