Cervical Traction Device Helps With Pain

By Debra Cooley


There are many conditions that may cause a person to suffer mild to crippling pain in their necks. Most turn to their doctors or chiropractors to find a solution for relief. In a good many cases, a cervical traction device is the best non-surgical alternative for decreasing the discomfort caused by numerous issues ranging from chronic headaches to bulging discs.

The premise by which these devices work is a relatively simple one. A slow and gentle force is applied to the underside of the skull to stretch the vertebra and soft tissue in the neck, easing pain and reducing spasms. There are several types of these tools that are designed for utilization either under the supervision of a trained professional or at home.

Used to treat multiple issues including muscle spasms, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis related neck pains, bulging discs, numbness in the upper extremities, aching backs and jaws as well as headaches, this practice is becoming quite common. Many consider it to be the premier method for restoring posture to correct positioning. Several studies show that it is capable of diminishing severe migraines in approximately twenty minutes.

This stretching method has been credited to the Ancient Egyptian healers but has only been accepted as viable treatment by modern science since the 1930's. For the most part there is no real risk to this practice though a health professional should always be consulted prior to putting it into action. The reason for this is that some conditions such as pregnancy, cancer, some infections or ruptured disc can actually yield counterproductive results.

The therapy works by gently stretching the spinal vertebra, as well as the soft tissue and muscles surrounding them. The purpose is to relieve the pressure on the discs and the nerves that may be pinched between them. When everything has been properly realigned, the necessary fluids are again able to circulate, easing pain, stiffness and other symptoms.

Generally speaking, this process is only done for not more than fifteen minutes at a time. With at least two hours of rest between treatments, it may be administered several times a day as necessary for relief. Practitioners should be aware of their limits and heed their doctor's advice because overdoing this therapy can result in soreness that is actually counterproductive.

A qualified practitioner can apply this therapy manually by having the patient lay on a table to have their neck stretched. A popular device used both under supervision and alone is a sling that goes over the door and has a harness to cradle the skull beneath the jaw, using a mechanical winch to gently raise it up. For home use, many choose to use a collar that is inflated via a hand pump the wearer controls, applying even pressure to all points of contact.

There are several ailments that may cause a body to feel varied levels of pain in their necks, backs, heads and hands. Many of these can be relieved by using a cervical traction device to release pressure on the discs and soft tissues of the spine. While gentle and generally safe, it is highly advised that one consult their personal physician before beginning this, or any other type of therapy.




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