Cervical traction is the method of using an external source to pull on the head and reduce the pressure on a nerve root. There are many different products on the market that can accomplish neck traction. Some of these products can be used at home and others must be used in a doctor's office. These devices can improve circulation to the anatomical structures of the neck, promote relaxation and relieve pressure and stiffness.
Manual Cervical Traction
Manual Cervical Traction includes traction equipment that can be used at home. The oldest version of this traction product is over-the-door or off-the-table equipment that uses weights of some sort to pull on the head and create distraction and gaping of the neck. This can create stress on the jaw and is not recommended for people with TMJ problems.
Posture Pump
A posture pump is a device designed to decompress and shape the cervical spine. It was created by a doctor who treated neck and back pain for 25 years. There is one product designed specifically for the neck and is call the Cervical Disc Hydrator. It starts at around $200 as of December 2010.
Air Neck Traction
Air Neck Traction uses air to create distraction of the head. This method is very similar to a blood pressure cuff. A device is placed around the neck and then a hand pump is used to inflate the bag inside. Air traction is gentler than some of the other at-home methods.
Decompression Tables
Some physicians have decompression tables in their offices. Such tables gently stretch the spine and decompress discs. This causes a vacuum to be created in the discs which can help the discs retract to their natural positions. A series of visits for four to six weeks is a normal treatment plan. Each treatment will usually take up to 45 minutes.
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