Cervical traction is a non-invasive physical method designed to gently stretch the neck, separating the vertebrae in the cervical spine. This process involves applying a pulling force to the head, which temporarily reduces pressure on the intervertebral discs and nerve roots. This decompression aims to relieve symptoms such as chronic pain, muscle spasms, and nerve compression that cause radiating pain or numbness in the arms. Creating space within the neck allows tight muscles to relax and can potentially improve circulation to spinal structures.
Selecting the Appropriate Device Type
Home cervical traction devices employ different mechanisms to achieve the therapeutic pull. Over-the-door weight systems are a common, low-cost option that use a head harness, a pulley, and a weight bag, often requiring the user to be seated. The force is controlled by the amount of weight added to the bag.
Pneumatic devices, frequently used while lying down, rely on an inflatable air bladder or collar that uses a hand pump to generate controlled upward pressure. These devices often have gauges to measure the pressure, allowing for a more precise, repeatable force. Mechanical traction units, sometimes called posture pumps, utilize a lever or crank system, often combined with a supine position, to achieve a specific, sustained pull.
Essential Pre-Use Preparation and Setup
Establishing a stable and comfortable body position is important for safety and effectiveness before initiating any pull. If using a system requiring a supine position, the body should lie flat on a firm, level surface to ensure proper spinal alignment. For seated, over-the-door devices, the chair must be stable, with the back straight and the pulley assembly aligned directly above the head.
The head harness or chin strap must be adjusted for a secure, yet gentle, fit around the head and jawline. The material must be snug enough to transmit the traction force but not so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts blood flow. Any items that interfere with the harness, such as earrings, glasses, or bulky collars, should be removed prior to starting the session. Some devices allow for adjusting the neck flexion angle, which should typically be set between 10 to 20 degrees to target the lower cervical segments effectively, unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise.
Applying and Maintaining Traction Safely
The pulling force must be applied slowly and incrementally to allow the body to adapt and prevent muscle guarding or spasm. For weight-based systems, this means adding weights in small increments, often starting with a force as low as 8 to 10 pounds. Users of pneumatic devices should pump the unit slowly, watching the pressure gauge to ensure the force increases gradually.
The goal is to feel a gentle, comfortable stretch, not sharp or immediate pain. A common guideline for total tension is to not exceed 7% to 10% of the user’s body weight, especially when first beginning treatment. Sessions should adhere to a specific duration, typically ranging between 10 and 20 minutes, unless a physical therapist has prescribed a different protocol, such as two- to three-minute intermittent holds.
Throughout the treatment, the user must actively monitor for any adverse symptoms. If the patient experiences sharp, radiating pain, dizziness, or a sudden increase in numbness, the force must be immediately released. Releasing the traction must be done just as slowly as the application, either by gradually lowering the weight or slowly releasing the air pressure. This slow release minimizes the risk of a rebound effect that could cause muscle stiffness or pain.
Safety Guidelines and Contraindications
Cervical traction is not appropriate for everyone and should only be initiated after consultation with a healthcare provider to ensure a proper diagnosis. Specific medical conditions strictly prohibit the use of traction due to the risk of serious complications. These contraindications include acute neck injury (such as a recent sprain or strain) or the presence of spinal instability.
Patients with severe osteoporosis, a recent spinal fracture, or an extruded disc fragment should avoid traction completely. Other conditions that prohibit use are infections, tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, or known vascular compromise, such as an aortic aneurysm. If any new symptoms arise during a session, such as sudden dizziness, tingling, or increased numbness, the device must be stopped immediately.