That extra s-t-r-e-t-c-h can help bring relief.
Chiropractors and doctors sometimes prescribe traction for patients with cervical spine, neck and shoulder problems, and have them carry out these treatments at home under careful medical direction. The two traction systems offered by Core Products are no exception, and should not be used without the advice and supervision of a medical professional.
The Cervical Traction System™ helps restore proper cervical curve and includes several components - as does the Overhead Traction System, which is a popular way to alleviate pressure on the spinal column. Again, consult your doctor before using either product.
Stretch away your pain with traction systems
Traction systems are used as an aggressive form of therapy to treat neck pain
Traction systems are often used as part of an aggressive therapy to relieve neck pain. It’s relied upon to alleviate neck pain associated with cervical disc herniation, spondylosis, osteoarthritis and cervical radiculopathy. It’s also used when a pinched nerve in the upper spine is associated with the pain radiating down upper extremities, muscle spasms in the upper back, fibromyalgia, and whiplash. So what is traction exactly? Traction is the act of applying a mild stretch at constant pressure to body tissues, especially muscles and ligaments around areas of pain that may involve acute, unwanted pressure on bones.
Chiropractors and doctors will provide manual traction at the office, but may also prescribe a traction system for patients to use at home under close medical supervision. Traction systems range from full-size beds to over-the-door models. There are two types of traction systems that are frequently used: cervical traction systems and overhead traction systems. Cervical traction systems help to restore proper cervical curve. Meanwhile, overhead traction systems help to alleviate pressure on the spinal column. Essentially, traction systems are devices used to help stretch out the cervical spine by pulling the head and neck away from it. This consequently provides relief from pain and stiffness. When the traction is applied to the spine, focusing on the neck (cervical) and lower back (lumbar) regions. The stretching may also help to relieve sprains and spasms of the neck muscle, whereas stretching apart the vertebrae of the spine helps to relieve pain caused by worn spinal discs. Traction may also free pinched nerves caused by compression between vertebrae. The specifics of the traction therapy a person receives depend on the source of pain. In many mechanical traction systems, 7 to 10 pounds of weight will be applied for about a half-hour, often two or three times daily. Often, many therapists will apply heating pads or use muscle relaxants to make the traction more effective. Traction systems can be used over several days or weeks, depending on the severity of the pain, plus how well the neck or spine responds to the treatment.
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