"Traction" is type of a medical treatment in which force is applied to the spine in a "pulling" motion, in order to relieve pressure from injuries or misalignment. Cervical traction is used to treat the neck. When used properly and safely, traction can a very effective approach for improving joint mobility, relieving nerve and disc compression, improving posture, and relieving pain.
Types of Cervical Traction
Manual traction is applied by a therapist, who uses his hands to position the patient's neck to achieve a therapeutic effect. The treatment is focused on reducing nerve compression, stretching muscles or decreasing pressure on the vertebral discs within the spine.
Mechanical traction uses a piece of equipment to support the patient's neck. This allows the neck to be positioned. Then the therapist applies a designated amount of pull, measured in pounds, which is either constant or intermittent. The on and off time is measured in minutes. A hand-held shutoff switch is provided to the patient for safety.
Limitations
Cervical traction provides only temporary relief but treatments may be enough to reduce muscle spasms, nerve irritation, swelling and pain in the short-term.
Safety Precautions
Anyone considering the use of cervical traction should always consult a licensed medical professional to receive proper instruction and monitoring. If pain, reduced neck motion or dizziness occurs, this is cause for discontinuing treatment. If the neck injury or swelling is recent, it may be too early to apply traction. Patients arthritis or any other disease process affecting the neck should also consult a physician to determine if traction is appropriate.
Home Cervical Traction
Home cervical traction units are simple to use and often involve a water bag to apply a stretch to the neck in sitting or when lying down. Some also involve a hand-held air pump to apply the stretch, and a gauge to measure the amount of pull in pounds. By keeping a journal, a patient can determine the desired setting and symptom relief after each use.
Potential
The key to a good result with cervical traction is to provide the right amount of stretch to the neck for the right length of time. Patients should position themselves for maximum comfort and relaxation during treatments and give their health care providers feedback about what works and what doesn't. Used correctly, cervical traction has a track record as a safe and effective treatment.
References
- "Physical Therapy"; Lumbar Traction; Duane Saunders; 1979.
- "The Spine. Basic Evaluation and Mobilization Techniques"; Freddy Kaltenborn; 1993
