Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Cervical Traction Device Delivers Relief

By Debra Cooley


There are many conditions that may cause a person to suffer mild to crippling pain in their necks. Most turn to their doctors or chiropractors to find a solution for relief. In a good many cases, a cervical traction device is the best non-surgical alternative for decreasing the discomfort caused by numerous issues ranging from chronic headaches to bulging discs.

The premise by which these devices work is a relatively simple one. A slow and gentle force is applied to the underside of the skull to stretch the vertebra and soft tissue in the neck, easing pain and reducing spasms. There are several types of these tools that are designed for utilization either under the supervision of a trained professional or at home.

This type of therapy is often prescribed as treatment for many issues including rheumatoid or osteoarthritis based neck pains, numbness in one's arms or hands, muscle spasms, herniated discs, and aches in the back, jaw and head. It is commonly regarded as a most effective way of restoring and correcting one's posture. This process can soothe a migraine in approximately twenty minutes according to major studies on the subject.

This stretching method has been credited to the Ancient Egyptian healers but has only been accepted as viable treatment by modern science since the 1930's. For the most part there is no real risk to this practice though a health professional should always be consulted prior to putting it into action. The reason for this is that some conditions such as pregnancy, cancer, some infections or ruptured disc can actually yield counterproductive results.

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.

Sessions should not be performed for more than fifteen minutes each. It can be done multiple times each day, as needed for pain, but there should be a minimal of two hours between treatments. Those doing this at home should heed their doctor's advice carefully as applying the pressure too often could cause a soreness that actually works counter-productively.

The first method by which the therapy is often administered is manual manipulation, where a trained practitioner gently supports and stretches the neck while the patient lies on a table. Another way is to place one's chin in a sling device that hangs over a door and uses mechanical means to apply an upward force along the jawline. The final tool is an inflatable collar that the wearer controls with a hand pump to evenly distribute pressure to extend the upper spine.

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.




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