The Greek physician Hippocrates was not just the “Father of Medicine.” Hippocrates spent a great deal of time studying human skeletal components, and the modern field of orthopedics still follows some of the principles he established. Hippocrates understood well the importance of the spine, and he invented two devices – the Hippocratic ladder and the Hippocratic board, to correct spinal deformities.
Safely Stretching the Spine
This type of treatment from 2500 years ago is still in use today. Medical traction is used on various parts of the body to maintain or rest the position of fractured bones, and to remedy skeletal deformations. Neck traction, also called cervical traction, is a medical stretching process highly suited for the treatment of neck pain. It is also applicable for compressed nerves, cracked discs, degenerative disc disease, and cervical stenosis, along with many other conditions.
Types of Neck Traction
Cervical and other attractions can be performed manually (preferably by a licensed physical therapist). Pulling and stretching the spine by hand may allow for better precision for force applied, but it is critical that it is done by someone with proper training and experience.
Specialized cervical traction device include mechanical and over-the-door traction. Both are designed to apply a controlled pulling force to the afflicted user’s cervical spine, and both utilize a harness or head halter connected to pulleys and weights. Mechanical traction is put in place while the user lies flat, while the over-the-door process has the user sit or stand. Over-the-door traction devices are most commonly used in the home.
Inversion tables have been in use around the world for over a century. When the table is inverted, the user hangs upside down to cause a traction force to be employed to the entire spine. Check with your doctor before using an inversion table. They can cause problems for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, and glaucoma.
Pneumatic traction is an approach that uses air pressure to stretch the cervical spine. It uses an inflatable collar that wraps around the neck. As air is added to the collar the pressure increases and the collar expands upward and downward, gently pulling the head away from the torso.
Cervical Traction Risks
Cervical traction is not especially dangerous, but there are risks. The chance of injury increases greatly if device instructions are not followed or if contraindications are disregarded. Potential risks include muscle spasms, nerve damage, and tension headaches. Note that inversion tables are not suitable for many people because their use causes dizziness and vertigo. People with osteoporosis, spinal instability, or vascular conditions should avoid all forms of neck traction.
If you have neck pain and/or severe tension, you may be considering the purchase of a cervical traction device. There are many on the market, with a wide range of prices and feature sets. Neck traction may offer the relief you are looking for. However, it cannot be overstressed how important it is to consult with a healthcare professional before using any spine-related traction device.