Cervical traction, also referred to as spinal traction, is a widely used treatment for injuries and pain connected to the neck. Cervical traction involves pulling your head away from your neck to release compression and promote expansion. It is regarded as an alternative therapy for neck discomfort, assisting patients in avoiding prescription drugs or surgical procedures. It can be utilized independently at home or in conjunction with physical therapy.
By pulling or separating the vertebrae, cervical traction devices gently stretch the neck to relieve strain on the spine. It is reported to be extremely potent and quickly acting. Continue reading to find out more about this method and how it might help you.
Benefits of cervical traction
Different kinds and causes of neck pain, stress, and tightness are treated with cervical traction devices. By assisting in the relaxation of the muscles, cervical traction can greatly reduce discomfort and stiffness and increase the range of motion. Additionally, bulging or herniated disks are treated and flattened with it. It can relieve sprains, spasms, and joint pain. Additionally, pinched nerves, cervical spondylosis, and neck injuries are treated with it.
To relieve pressure and pain, cervical traction devices stretch the muscles and spinal vertebrae. The head is pulled or stretched away from the neck using force or tension. By leaving room between the vertebrae, compression is released and the muscles can unwind. This causes the muscles and joints surrounding the neck to lengthen or stretch.
Increased mobility, range of motion, and alignment are possible outcomes of these developments. You'll be able to carry out your everyday tasks more easily as a result.
How it’s done
Cervical traction can be performed in a few different ways, at home or with a physical therapist. You can choose the approach that best meets your needs with the assistance of your physical therapist.
You could be advised by your physical therapist to purchase cervical traction equipment for use at home. You might need a prescription for some gadgets. Medical supply stores and the internet both sell cervical traction devices. Before using the gadget on your own, your physical therapist should demonstrate proper usage for you.
Even if your treatment at home is at home, it is still crucial that you follow up with your physical therapist. They will monitor your progress, ensure you're receiving the finest care possible, and modify your therapy as needed.
Manual cervical traction
A physical therapist performs manual cervical traction. They will carefully remove your head from your neck while you are in a lying position. They'll maintain this posture for a while before letting go and starting over. To achieve the optimum outcomes, your physical therapist will modify your precise placement.
Mechanical cervical traction
A physical therapist performs mechanical cervical traction. While you're flat on your back, a harness is fastened to your head and neck. Your head will be pulled away from your neck and spine by the traction force exerted by the harness when it is attached to a machine or weight system.
Over-the-door cervical traction
The purpose of an over-the-door traction device is at home. You fasten a harness around your head and neck. This is attached to a rope that crosses a door as part of a weighted pulley system. You can perform this in a seated, reclined, or horizontal position.
Side effects and warnings
Cervical traction is generally safe, however, keep in mind that individual outcomes may vary. There should be no pain at all during the procedure.
When you change your body in this way, you can feel side effects including nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Fainting could even result from this. If any of these adverse effects occur, stop using the product and talk to your physician or physical therapist about them.
You run the risk of hurting your spine, neck, or soft tissues. Cervical traction should be avoided if you have:
- a bone infection
- postsurgery hardware such as screws in your neck
- osteoporosis
- a known tumor in the neck area
- rheumatoid arthritis
- spinal hypermobility
- issues or blockages with vertebral or carotid arteries
- a recent fracture or injury in the neck area
- cervical instability
You must follow any safety instructions and recommendations provided by your doctor.
