Traction of the spine, known as cervical traction, is a popular treatment for neck pain and related injuries. Essentially, cervical traction moves the head away from the neck to create expansion and eliminate compression. It is considered an alternative treatment for neck pain, helping people avoid the need for medication or surgery. It can be used as part of a physical therapy treatment or alone at home.
Cervical traction devices slightly stretch the neck to reduce pressure on the spine by pulling or spreading the vertebrae. It is said to be very effective and fast acting. Read on to learn more about this technique and how it can be beneficial for you.
Benefits of cervical traction
Cervical traction devices treat different types and causes of neck pain, tension, and tightness. Cervical traction helps relax muscles, which can significantly relieve pain and stiffness while increasing flexibility. It is also used to treat and flatten bulging or herniated discs. It can relieve joint pain, sprains and spasms. It is also used to treat neck injuries, pinched nerves, and cervical spondylosis.
Cervical traction device work by stretching the vertebrae and muscles of the spine to relieve pressure and pain. Force or tension is used to stretch or pull the head away from the neck. Creating space between the vertebrae relieves compression and allows the muscles to relax. This lengthens or stretches the muscles and joints around the neck.
These improvements can lead to better mobility, range of motion, and alignment. This will allow you to go about your daily activities more easily.
A meta-analysis of studies from 2017 looked at the effectiveness of cervical traction in relieving neck pain. This report found that treatment significantly reduced neck pain immediately after treatment. Pain scores were also reduced in the follow-up period. More in-depth, high-quality studies are needed to learn more about the long-term effects of this treatment.
A 2014 study found that mechanical traction was effective in treating people with pinched nerves and neck pain. Mechanical traction was more effective than exercising alone or exercising, in addition to using traction on the door.
How is it done
There are several ways to perform cervical traction, either with a physical therapist or on your own at home. Your physical therapist can help you decide the best method to meet your needs.
Your physical therapist may recommend that you purchase cervical traction equipment to use at home. Some devices may require a prescription. Cervical traction devices are available online and in medical supply stores. Your physical therapist should show you how to use the device correctly before using it on your own.
It is important to see your physical therapist even if you are doing a home treatment. They will make sure you are getting the best treatment, measure your progress, and adjust your therapy as needed.
Manual cervical traction
Manual cervical traction is performed by a physical therapist. While you are lying down, they will gently pull your head away from your neck. They will hold this position for a period of time before releasing and repeating. Your physical therapist will make adjustments to your exact position for the best results.
Mechanical cervical traction
Mechanical cervical traction is performed by a physical therapist. A harness is placed on your head and neck while you are lying on your back. The harness attaches to a weight machine or system that applies traction force to pull the head away from the neck and spine.
Cervical traction over the door
A pulling device on the door is for domestic use. Attach the head and neck to a harness. It is connected to a rope that is part of a weighted pulley system that runs over a door. This can be done sitting, lying down, or lying down.
Cervical traction exercises
There are several exercises that can be performed with cervical traction devices. Make sure you listen to your body and go to your own limit or threshold in terms of neck stretcher and duration of your exercises.
To use an cervical neck traction device, wrap it around your neck and adjust the straps as needed. Then inflate and wear it for about 20 to 30 minutes. Do this several times throughout the day. You can use the device while doing activities where you tend to slouch.
To use a neck traction device over the door, you will generally start with around 10 to 20 pounds of pulling force, which can increase as you gain strength. Your physical therapist can recommend the correct amount of weight to use. Pull and hold the weight for 10 to 20 seconds and then slowly release it. Continue with this for 15 to 30 minutes at a time. You can do this several times during the day.
A posture pump is used while lying down. Warm up before using this device. Slowly turn your head from side to side, then back and forth, and then tilt your neck from side to side. Do each exercise 10 times. Next, place the wearable device on your head and increase the pressure so that it tightens around your forehead. Once it is pumped, wait 10 seconds before releasing the air. Do this 15 times. Then inflate the unit and relax in a comfortable position for up to 15 minutes. Make sure you don't pump too much, especially in the beginning. Once released from the pump, keep your head aligned with your spine as you stand up. Repeat the warm-up routine.
You can also incorporate stretching into your daily routine. You can use accessories like exercise balls or resistance bands. Yoga is another great tool for relieving neck pain, and there are many cervical traction exercises that your click here to find out more physical therapist can recommend that do not require any equipment other than a bed or table.
The Takeaway
Cervical traction can be a wonderfully effective and safe way to resolve neck pain. It can provide your body with numerous enhancements, inspiring you to do so often. Ideally, it will be effective in relieving neck pain and improving your overall function.
Always talk to your doctor or physical therapist before starting any treatment. Get in touch with them throughout your therapy to discuss your improvements as well as side effects. They can also help you establish a treatment plan that addresses exactly what you need to correct.