Cervical traction is physical therapy or treatment to help treat neck pain and cervical radiculopathy ( pinched nerves). The therapy process involves stretching the neck and separating the disc and joint surfaces in the cervical spine. Cervical traction helps decrease compressive forces in the neck and takes off pressure from the discs between the vertebrae (spinal bones) in the neck. The procedure also opens up spaces where nerves exit the spinal canal, relieving pressure on compressed nerves. It also stretches the muscles and joint structures around the neck, which helps in decreasing the discomfort resulting from neck pain.

Our therapy

We offer you two options in cervical traction, mainly manual traction and mechanical traction. First, our physical therapist will examine you and go through your medical records to fix your problem; then, the PT will discuss the cervical traction procedure with you and choose the most appropriate option.

Manual Traction

This is done by a skilled PT who will hold your neck and head in his hands and then gently provide traction or pulling force to your neck. Alternate periods of pulling and resting are usually applied, with each position held for 10 seconds.

Mechanical Traction: Here, a harness that attaches to your head and neck is used while you are made to lie on your back. The harness is then attached to a machine that provides the pulling force; the machine is controlled by the physical therapist, who adjusts the force applied as required.