What Is Cervical Traction and How Can It Help Neck Pain?
If you've been dealing with neck pain, stiffness, or discomfort that travels into your shoulders or arms, you may have heard your chiropractor mention cervical traction.
Cervical traction is a technique that gently applies a stretching force to the neck. It may be used as part of a larger treatment plan to help certain patients improve comfort and mobility.
What Is Cervical Traction?
Cervical traction gently separates the vertebrae in the neck to create a stretching or unloading effect.
Depending on the type of traction being used, the force can be applied manually by a healthcare provider or with a specialized device.
At our office, we use the Posture Pump® Neck Pump®, an air-filled cervical traction device designed to provide a controlled stretch to the neck.
Why Might Someone Need Cervical Traction?
Neck pain can have many different causes. In some patients, symptoms may be associated with muscle tension, restricted movement, or irritation involving the structures of the cervical spine.
Depending on your individual condition, cervical traction may be used to:
Gently stretch the neck
Reduce feelings of stiffness or tension
Improve mobility
Provide temporary relief from neck discomfort
Complement other chiropractic treatments and exercises
Traction isn't appropriate for everyone, which is why your chiropractor should determine whether it is appropriate for your particular condition.
What Does Cervical Traction Feel Like?
Cervical traction should generally feel like a gentle, controlled stretch rather than a forceful pulling sensation.
The experience can vary from person to person. Some patients describe feeling a comfortable stretch through the neck, while others may notice a temporary change in pressure or tension.
Your chiropractor will determine the appropriate positioning and amount of traction for you and monitor how you respond.
Can I Use a Cervical Traction Device at Home?
Some cervical traction devices are designed for home use. However, that doesn't mean they are appropriate for everyone or that more traction is necessarily better.
If your chiropractor recommends a traction device for home use, it's important to follow the instructions you've been given regarding positioning, frequency, and duration.
Don't increase the amount or duration of traction on your own simply because you think more will provide better results.
Is Cervical Traction Right for Everyone?
No. Cervical traction should be recommended based on your individual symptoms, examination findings, and overall health.
If you experience increased pain, numbness, tingling, dizziness, weakness, or other unusual symptoms while using a traction device, stop using it and contact your healthcare provider.
Your chiropractor can help determine whether traction is appropriate and whether your symptoms need further evaluation.
The Bigger Picture
Cervical traction is one tool that may be used to help manage certain types of neck discomfort. It is not intended to replace a complete evaluation or serve as a stand-alone solution for every type of neck pain.
Depending on your condition, your treatment plan may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue techniques such as Active Release Technique (ART), exercises, stretches, ergonomic recommendations, and other forms of care.
If you're experiencing neck pain or stiffness and want to know whether cervical traction may be appropriate for you, talk with your chiropractor. An individualized evaluation can help determine which treatments are most appropriate for your particular situation.
