Neck traction, also known as cervical traction, is an amazing drug-free method to relieve neck pain for anyone suffering from neck arthritis, herniated/bulging disc in the neck, neck strains and cervical muscle spasms.
These days you don’t have to go to a physical therapist for neck traction, you can do home neck traction just as effectively and safely – As long as you learn how to do it and which device is best for you.
This guide will show exactly how to do home cervical traction safely, without spending a fortune.
How Does Neck Traction Relieve Neck Pain?
In traction, the goal is to provide the opportunity for your neck muscles and pinched nerves to be released.
Tension is placed on the head to pull it up and away from the neck, stretching the muscles and ligaments around the vertebrae of the spine and expanding the space between the vertebrae.
For many people, neck traction equipment provides fast neck pain relief – Without medication – And a faster recovery from neck injuries.
Air neck traction devices are basically inflated neck braces. You secure them around your neck and use the pump to inflate them.
As the pillow gets filled with air, it straightens takes the weight off your neck and pushes down your shoulders.
You use the pump to gradually raise the level of air to a comfortable stretch. Your muscles relax and your discs are aligned and ready to re-hydrate. You are also taking the pressure off your nerves and blood vessels of course.
The Upsides
Air nect traction devices are easy to use, require no assembly and are completely portable. You can easily take them anywhere and use them at the office or while traveling. You can use them while sitting or lying down, however you’d like.
The Downsides
Not all air neck traction devices are made of high quality materials. One unit I had started leaking after I’ve used it for only 6 times, so you really have to know which ones are the best (see below).
Another disadvantage is that they can apply a bit too much pressure on your TMJ, since the pillow inflates around the jaw as well.
Over the door neck traction devices require, as hinted in the name, a door. They require some assembly because you have to place them over the back of a door.
The over the door traction device requires for you to place straps around the back of your head and your chin (see the picture above).
You tighten the strap to stretch your neck by using either a water bag (not recommended) or by pulling down a cord (like in the Neckpro device).
The Upsides
An over the door device if fairly easy to use once you’ve placed correctly and made sure the door is solid. You can than sit comfortably on a chair and read something while the traction works.
The Downsides
Over the door devices are less portable than air neck devices. You’ll need a solid door and a chair to use it and you can’t lie down and relax.
It can take some time to find the right stretch and your chin may take the brunt of the traction force.
But, it still gives you the same benefits and if you use it correctly it can bring you great neck pain relief.
I would not recommend using the water bag units, because they are harder to control.
Posture pump units are well-built and are heavy-duty pieces of quality durable medical equipment.
They simulate cervical traction performed in a clinic, and are nearly identical as far as quality of treatment goes, in my experience.
Posture pumps are larger, provide stronger traction and are made with durable material. They are light and portable and come in a handy carrying case.
They require no assembly and have softer, more comfortable head pad and straps.
You simply lie down, adjust the little knob/posts that secure the base of your skull and place the strap on your forehead. Then you just pump up the pressure and tighten.
The Upsides
Posture pumps are usually sturdier, made with more durable materials and work with no problems for years. They don’t use pillows that can leak air and they don’t need a door to support them.
They all have a handy carrying bag that protects them if you want to take them with you anywhere.
They don’t put pressure on your jaw or anywhere other than where it should be.
The Downsides
These units are less portable than the air neck traction devices, and they take up a bit more room. You can only use them lying down.
The price is higher, but in my opinion – Well worth it. Especially if you consider the money you are saving on dozens of chiropractor treatments.
Warnings
Neck traction at home should only be done after making sure, with your doctor, that it’s safe for you.
If you’ve already had a neck surgery, it’s not recommended to do neck traction at home.
Do not overdo traction, because it can cause more harm than good and over stretch your neck.
Follow instructions carefully and ask your doctor and treatment time and frequency per day.
Neck Traction at Night
If your neck pain is mostly caused by your sleeping position and comes usually at night or in the morning, a neck traction pillow can be your life saver.
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