A lot people suffer from mild to severe neck pain due to a variety of reasons. They seek professional treatment from physicians and chiropractors who try a number of different remedies to relieve the discomfort. Many find that using a cervical traction device can often provide a respite from the often debilitating hurt of so many things from a headache to a herniated disc.
These traction devices work on a relatively simple premise. A force is applied to the neck in order to stretch the soft tissue and reduce the pressure in the cervical region, which also relieves spasms. These tools come in many different forms that are designed for use both in a doctor's office and 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.
While it is believed this process was first practiced by the Ancient Egyptians, it has only been utilized in a clinical application since the 1930's. Although the practice is generally low impact and perfectly safe, it should not be undertaken without the consent of one's personal physician. There are certain situations such as cancer, specific infections, ruptured discs and pregnancy that are not conducive to type of treatment for various reasons.
It works by gently pulling the vertebra in the neck to their full extension, stretching the muscles and soft tissue as well. Doing so takes the pressure from the discs and nerves, allowing them to return to their natural positions. This action permits the vital fluids necessary for movement to flow freely once more which soothes aches and pains.
It is only recommended that the activity be performed just 15 minutes per session. While it is safe to repeat the therapy multiple times in one day, there should be a minimum of 2 hours between. Anyone choosing this option needs to recognize the limits of their own body and heed the advice of their medical adviser because doing it too often could actually prove to be more harmful than helpful.
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.