What Are Uses Of Cervical Traction?

Cervical traction has many medical applications. It helps lower compression in the neck, which removes pressure of discs that reside among the spinal bones (vertebrae) of the neck. It can also throw open the area where nerves exit from spinal canal to help relieve pressure from a compressed nerve. Cervical traction can also stretch joint and muscle structures around the neck.

Cervical traction can benefit the following conditions and more:

·         Neck arthritis

·         Bulging or herniated discs in neck

·         Cervical muscle spasms

·         Neck strains

There are different types of cervical traction based on mode of use. The best cervical traction device depends on your need:

·      Manual cervical traction: This type of traction is used manually by the physiotherapist, who holds the head and neck in his hand and applies a pulling force or traction to the neck. He applies rhythmic sessions of pulling and resting, holding each position for ten seconds.

·       Mechanical cervical traction: This traction involves the head and neck being attached to a harness, while patient is in lying down position. The harness is connected to a machine providing traction force. The machine has a control panel with which the Physiotherapist can monitor quantum of force applied.

·    Over the Door Traction: This traction device can be best used at home. It involves strapping a harness to your neck and head, while being seated on a chair. The harness is connected to a rope that is attached to a pulley system on a door. Weights are used to apply traction force like a water bag or sand bag, loaded at the opposite end of the rope.

Generally experts recommend applying a force of around 20 pounds while starting the traction. This traction force must be maintained for 10 to 20 seconds after which it must be released gently. One can increase traction to 30-50 pounds but rhythmic use must break for 10 to 20 seconds.

One can apply traction several times in a day. It is best to consult a qualified professional like a physiotherapist to discuss modalities of the cervical traction plan for you. If you experience aggravation of symptoms like pain, you must inform your doctor, immediately.