If your healthcare provider has diagnosed you with a condition treated with the assistance of a special device, it is essential to understand how these devices work and how they can help you recover. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend these devices following specific injuries. In other cases, they treat long-term chronic pain due to particular issues like cervical stenosis. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam to determine if you’re someone who would benefit from these devices.
While your doctor must determine candidacy, some indications that you may qualify for treatment include chronic pain, tension, or stiffness in the neck. It is never recommended to begin cervical traction without the green light from your healthcare professional. Starting treatment on sensitive areas like the head, neck, and spine is unsafe without your doctor’s input or guidance.
While the candidates for cervical traction and device usage vary, the most common candidates are individuals struggling with neck pain. Those suffering from joint hypomobility or degenerative disc disease may also benefit from using a traction device. For more information on who should consider using a cervical traction device, continue reading below.
How The cervical traction device Improves Positioning And Reduces Various Symptoms
Many cervical pathologies are treated with cervical traction. Cervical traction is the traction of the spine. The device pulls the head away from the neck to expand and reduce compression.
Cervical traction devices help stretch the neck to eliminate pressure on the spine. This is done by tugging at or separating the vertebrae. As a device-assisted technique, this treatment can work quickly and provide fast-acting relief to those with neck pain and related health problems.
Indications Of Possible Device Candidacy
Have your health provider perform a medical exam to determine if you are a candidate. If you are a candidate, you may also experience pain relief and see improvements in your symptoms relatively quickly. As an alternative treatment method, this treatment may not work for everyone. You may be a candidate for cervical traction and the use of a cervical traction device if you’re struggling with the following:
- neck pain, stiffness, and tension
- herniated disks
- chronic joint pain
- body sprains/spasms
- neck injuries
- cervical spondylosis
- pinched nerve
Remember that the above symptoms can manifest from many causes and do not indicate that using a cervical traction device is the correct course of treatment. Always consult with your doctor before using any device for at-home therapy.
Using At-home Devices
There are home traction devices that you can use while sitting or leaning back. You attach your head and neck to the device harness, which connects to a rope and pulley system. The system is placed over a door. As the cervical traction device system moves, it improves head, neck, and spinal positioning.
Finding Out If These Devices Are Right For You
While neck pain is common, traction devices are not suitable for everyone. Talk with your doctor about your best option and ask whether a cervical traction device may help you improve your health.
