Neck Traction Equipment And How It Is Used

By Megan Landry


Neck traction is a type of physical therapy designed to alleviate pain by gently stretching the cervical area of the spine. Physicians, chiropractors, and therapists frequently use this technique to relieve neck pain. However, it is also possible for patients to perform certain techniques in the privacy of their own home, if quality neck traction equipment is available.

Traction is performed in numerous ways by different health care practitioners. The latter may use mechanical equipment that was developed to gradually increase space between each cervical vertebrae. This helps to alleviate pressure on the discs of the spine and subsequently stop pain and discomfort. Some practitioners also use intermittent traction.

A method called over the door traction is favored among certain individuals with cervical issues. With this technique, the person's neck is positioned in a type of harness that is a attached over a strong door. The harness holds either weights or water bags, the latter of which are utilized to gradually stretch the area and ultimately alleviate pain and discomfort.

Inversion tables or slant boards are other kinds of devices that are often used on individuals with problems in the cervical area. Inversion tables are utilized to lower the chest and head of the person in order to encourage gravity to gently pull this section of the individual's body in a downward direction. A slant board can be used for this purpose as well. The latter is a wide, cushioned board that is positioned on a basic fulcrum that remains stationary during the procedure. This specific method, however, is not appropriate for individuals with glaucoma, vertigo, or blood pressure conditions.

Simple neck braces are frequently used on such patients also. Devices of this kind are generally only worn when one is up and about, although individuals who need such braces while sleeping can be prescribed a softer version of the device. The brace selected will primarily depend on the reason for which it is being worn, and suggestions made by the patient's physician.

Equipment is not always needed to complete certain techniques. For example, some practitioners recommend various yoga poses to reduce pressure in the cervical region. However, it is always wise to first consult a medical doctor before attempting to participate in yoga. If one does not perform the motions correctly, his or her condition may be exacerbated.

Using an orthopedic pillow is another basic form of traction therapy. Such devices were developed to support a person's shoulders with a large, high role, while allowing his or her head to hang down. It is not wise, however, to sleep on such a pillow, and they should only be used for a limited amount of time, which is approximately 30 minutes, unless one's physician directs him or her to use the device for longer period of time.

Because there are so many different techniques available, a patient must sometimes participate in various types of therapy before finding the one that is most helpful. A physician or chiropractor can offer guidance regarding this issue. It is never wise to attempt to treat oneself.

Neck traction equipment should always be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. Attempting to use such devices without proper instructions can result in serious injury. Anyone suffering from cervical problems or chronic pain should seek the advice of a medical practitioner as soon as possible.




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