Relieve Neck Pain at Home: The Power of a Cervical Traction Device

Cervical traction devices can diminish neck pain by carefully stretching the cervical spine. When this stretching occurs, the muscles and discs relax, resulting in less pain, fewer muscle spasms, and relief from pressed nerve pressure symptoms like pinched nerves. With continued use, you can experience improved posture and flexibility, as well as a range of motion.

It is critical that you start with a gentle stretch and only increase the pressure gradually. The goal is to increase without subjecting yourself to more pain or other symptoms that wreak havoc on your health. There are different types of cervical traction devices, including over-the-door devices, pneumatic devices, and self-applied options. They each work differently to support the user with their pain and progress. 

In this article, we take a look at the ways in which you may achieve relief from neck pain at home. Using a cervical traction device, you may adopt self-applied methods that can induce gentle traction stretching, with the goal of pain relief and other positive results, such as flexibility. For more information on the power of a neck traction device, continue reading below.

Neck Traction Device Types For At-Home Relief

The over-the-door neck traction device uses a chin harness and rope-and-pulley system function that rests over a door. Alternatively, the pneumatic device relies on an inflatable pump to establish adjustable forcing of stretching. The self-applied methods may include using a towel to give a traction stretch as the user controls the pressure and tension using their hands.

Three Objectives For Each Type

While each kind of neck traction device differs in setup, they all serve the objective of stretching the spine, decompressing discs, and relieving muscle spasms. When these tasks are accomplished, the user experiences pain relief, better alignment of the cervical spine (the c-curve), enhanced range of motion, improved posture, and greater flexibility in the neck area.

How To Use Your Device From Home

To use a neck traction device at home, start with a minimal amount of pressure and go for a short amount of time. You can increase the pressure and time per stretch as you get comfortable with using your neck traction device. For each use, make sure your device is secure and you are comfortably positioned. 

One option is to lie down with your knees propped. Typically, you’ll hold the stretch for 1-20 seconds, but you may be advised otherwise by your health provider. Be mindful of how you feel during the stretches. Notice if you feel pain, dizziness, or other symptoms, and if so, stop using the neck traction device right away.

Going Gradually And Following Your Provider’s Directions

As with any health matter, discuss your concerns regarding your neck traction device with your doctor or other medical health professional. Speak with them prior to using a neck traction device to make sure it is the right approach for your health situation. Remember to go gradually and to follow the directions provided by your care provider or physical therapist before using your device.