You are probably familiar with the pain and stiffness in your neck that you get when you wake up in the morning, when you work in the office, when you use your phone, or maybe when you sleep incorrectly. Sometimes this pain goes down your arm, and it feels like your arm is going numb. As a treatment for such neck problems, your doctor may recommend a treatment called "Cervical Traction". So today we will talk about this very simply, in a way that you can understand.
Simply put, what is cervical traction?
This may sound like a big deal, but it's a very simple concept. Cervical traction is a technique that involves gently pulling on your head to create a small space between the bones (vertebrae) in your neck. Think of it like a stack of biscuits, with nerves coming out of the vertebrae in your neck. Sometimes these vertebrae can get close together and pinch the nerves. That's when traction is used to move the vertebrae apart a little, freeing up the pinched nerve. This reduces the pressure on the nerve, relieving pain and other symptoms.
Our spine is divided into three main parts:
- Cervical spine: This is the part of our neck.
- Thoracic spine: The part of the upper back from the neck to where the ribs end.
- Lumbar spine: The part of our lower back, or lumbar region.
This traction treatment focuses on the cervical spine in the neck.
What conditions is this treatment used for?
Cervical traction is an effective treatment for many conditions that cause neck pain. Some conditions may develop suddenly, while others may develop over time.
| Medical condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Pinched Nerve or Radiculopathy | A pinched nerve that comes from the vertebrae in the neck. This can cause pain or numbness in the neck, shoulder, or arm. |
| Neck Sprain | Straining of neck muscles or ligaments due to an accident or incorrect posture. |
| Cervical Spondylosis | A condition that occurs due to the wear and tear of the vertebrae in the neck and the cartilage between them with age. |
| Herniated Disc | A herniated disc, a jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae, bulges out and presses on a nerve. |
| Fractured Spine | In some cases, traction is used to keep a spinal fracture stable while it heals. |
The most important thing is that your doctor will decide if this treatment is right for you. Do not self-diagnose and undergo this type of treatment.
How is this treatment done?
There are two main methods of performing cervical traction. Your doctor or physiotherapist will choose the most appropriate method based on your condition.
| Traction type | How it happens |
|---|---|
| Manual Cervical Traction | In this, the doctor or physiotherapist will gently grasp your head with both hands and gently pull it away from your body. You may do this by turning and bending your neck at different angles. This will help you find the position that provides the most relief. |
| Mechanical Cervical Traction | In this method, you lie down on a bed and a special device is attached to your head and neck. This machine applies very controlled, precise force to your neck for a set amount of time. This allows for consistent pressure to be applied over a long period of time. This also includes traction devices that you can use at home. |
Can traction be done at home?
Yes, some people are prescribed traction devices by their doctor that they can use at home. These come in many different types, from those that are attached to a door frame to those that are used while lying on a table. But remember, never bring any of these devices home without the advice of a doctor. You should first learn how to do this under the guidance of a physical therapist and only then do it at home after you are sure that it is right for you.
What are the benefits and risks of this treatment?
Advantages
The main benefit of cervical traction therapy is the ability to provide immediate pain relief. Some people start to feel a big difference after just the first few treatments.
- Reduced neck pain.
- Feeling lighter, with the stiffness and tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders gone.
- Increased flexibility of the neck muscles.
- Increased range of motion in the neck.
Risks and Contraindications
Generally, cervical traction is a very safe treatment when done correctly, as it does not use enough force to damage the neck. However, this treatment is not suitable for some people and those with certain medical conditions.
| When should cervical traction treatment not be performed? | |
|---|---|
| Pregnant women | People who have had cervical fusion surgery |
| People with fear of closed places (claustrophobia) | Untreated High Blood Pressure |
| Diseases that weaken bones, such as osteoporosis | Spinal infections, for example, osteomyelitis |
| Spinal Cord Tumors | Diseases that affect the spinal cord, such as myelopathy |
Therefore, if you have any other medical conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor about them before starting this treatment.
When should you see a doctor?
If you are using a traction device at home, or while receiving treatment, and experience any of the following symptoms, discontinue treatment immediately and see your doctor.
- New pain or worsening of existing pain.
- Numbness or loss of sensation in the hands, feet, and fingers.
- Changes in vision .
- Headache .
These may indicate that the treatment is not suitable for you or that a complication is developing.
Take-Home Message
- Cervical traction is a treatment for neck pain that increases the space between the vertebrae in the neck and reduces pressure on the nerves.
- While this may provide immediate relief, it may not be a long-term solution for everyone.
- Most importantly: Never attempt cervical traction on your own or use a home device without medical advice.
- Only your doctor can decide whether this treatment is right for you. Therefore, if you have neck pain, see a qualified doctor first.
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