An apparatus for applying traction force to a spine of a user has a chassis with an upper surface. A user lies on the upper surface with the spine extending generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the chassis. Two members extend from the chassis on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis, each member being positioned to engage an armpit. A lever is pivotally attached to the chassis for rotation about a lateral axis, and a pad coupled to the lever contacts a proximal portion of each upper leg when the leg is bent forward at a hip joint. A force applied to the lever is transmitted through the pad to each upper leg and opposed by the members, thereby applying traction force for decompressing the spine. The force may be applied by the arms of the user or by a motor.
