A traction chair is disclosed which functions as a normal chair when not in use, but which can be deployed to provide a user with traction for decompressing the spine. The traction chair employs a stationary framework that is supported on the ground. A number of articulating components are mounted on the stationary framework the articulating components being actuated by a motive force. The articulating components when actuated together cause the seat portion of the chair to separate from the backrest portion and open up a widening gap between the seat portion and backrest portion of the chair.