A traction device for relieving back pain has a flexible strip (1) which is held around a person's waist by means of a belt (2). Two adjustable straps (3) are attached at one end to the belt (2) and are provided with stirrup loops (12) at their opposite ends. The stirrup loops (12) fit around the person's feet and the person can self-apply a traction force to his spinal column by extending his knees.