Cervical Traction: Risks, Benefits

What is Cervical Traction?

Cervical traction is a treatment designed to alleviate neck pain by gently pulling on your head to create space between the cervical vertebrae in your neck. This process, also known as spinal traction, can be administered either by a healthcare provider or by yourself at home using a cervical traction device. The goal is to reduce pressure and tension in the neck, providing relief from various symptoms.

Structure of the Spine

The spine is divided into three main sections:

• Cervical spine: The neck region.
• Thoracic spine: The upper back, extending from the neck to the bottom of the ribs.
• Lumbar spine: The lower back.

Cervical traction specifically targets the cervical spine, gently pulling apart the vertebrae to relieve pressure.

Conditions Treated with Cervical Traction

Cervical traction is effective for numerous conditions that cause neck and back pain, including:

• Temporary conditions: Radiculopathy, pinched nerves, neck sprains, and fractured spine.
• Long-term issues: Spinal stenosis, degenerative disk disease, cervical spondylosis, and scoliosis.

How Cervical Traction Works

Cervical traction can be performed in two ways:

• Manual cervical traction: A healthcare provider uses their hands to gently pull the head away from the body, adjusting the neck’s position and bend.
• Mechanical cervical traction: The patient lies down, and a cervical traction device gently pulls the head to create space in the neck. This method can last longer as it doesn’t require the physical exertion of the provider.

Benefits of Cervical Traction

Cervical traction offers several advantages, including:

• Quick symptom relief.
• Reduced pain and stiffness.
• Increased flexibility in neck muscles.
• Improved range of motion (in some cases).

Risks and Considerations

While cervical traction is generally safe, it may not be suitable for everyone. People who should avoid it include those who are pregnant, claustrophobic, or have had cervical fusion surgery. Conditions like aneurysms, osteoporosis, osteomyelitis, spinal cord tumors, myelopathy, and untreated high blood pressure can also make cervical traction unsafe.

Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine if cervical traction is right for you and follow all safety instructions if using a device at home.

Advanced Solution: Saunders Cervical Traction Device

We offer you the best permanent solution the Saunders Cervical Traction Device: a new technology from Chattanooga (U.S.). This advanced device provides an effective and convenient way to perform cervical traction, ensuring precise and controlled stretching to relieve neck pain and other related symptoms.