Cervical traction has been around since the late eighteenth century, according to the website Spine Universe. The purpose of spinal traction is to pull on the head using longitudinal force or a long axis distraction force on the spine, with the goal of relieving pain and symptoms caused by a variety of neck problems. Home traction is usually prescribed for cervical disc disorders after a course of in-office physical therapy and treatment.
Supine Cervical Pneumatic Traction Unit
Step 1
Place traction unit on a firm, flat surface.
Step 2
Tie up long hair so it is out of the way.
Step 3
Lie down and place bottom of the head on the back of the pillow and firmly attach the forehead straps. Make sure the shoulder groves are comfortably placed on the shoulders.
Step 4
Slowly pump up the device to the prescribed pressure. Starting pressures range from 7 to 10 lbs. of pressure, according to Spine Universe. Cervical discs cannot stand as much distraction as a lumbar disc, so these units do not go above 25 lbs. of traction. Reduce the initial pressure if there is increased pain. Shift the position of the head and firmness of the forehead strap to find the most comfortable position.
Step 5
Repeat three times a week or as prescribed by a doctor. The frequency of traction is ultimately based on symptoms and will decrease until eventually traction is not needed at all.
Over-the-Door Unit
Step 1
Place the pulley unit over the door and attach the ropes or racketing mechanism.
Step 2
Move chair with two 2- to 3-inch books on the seat to face the door and place the straps around the head, firmly securing them under the chin.
Step 3
Sit straight in the chair on top of the books and slowly pull on the tension rope or handle of the racketing unit until a firm traction is felt. These traction machines rarely exceed 20 lbs. of traction force.
Step 4
Slowly stand and remove one of the books or pull farther on the racketing mechanism if pain relief is not felt after five minutes. Move the chair farther away from the door so the head is in more of a flexed, or bent forward, position to help achieve pain relief. Twenty to 30 degrees of flexion--in other words, the eye line will naturally be looking at the knees--is the standard starting position, according to Medcompare, a professional medical supply review site.
Step 5
Move the chair off to a slight angle to the door so the head is laterally tilted as well as flexed to find the most comfortable position.
Tips and Warnings
- Tilt and move the head around while on traction to find the most comfortable position. Find a quiet space to do the traction.
- Never traction more pressure than prescribed without talking to a doctor. Never increase the pounds of traction quickly as it can damage tissues in the neck. Treatment should not be done for more than five minutes when using the traction device for the first time.
Things You'll Need
- Traction unit
- Firm, flat surface
- Hair tie
- Chair
- 2, 2- to 3-inch books
- Door
