Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Important Information About Neck Traction Equipment

By Megan Landry


In order to alleviate pain in the cervical area by gentle stretching, neck traction is often utilized. The latter is completed by chiropractors, physicians, and therapists to relieve painful symptoms in patients. However, certain techniques of this kind can be performed in a patient's home, provided proper neck traction equipment is utilized.

Traction is performed in numerous ways by different health care practitioners. The latter may use mechanical equipment that was developed to gradually increase space between each cervical vertebrae. This helps to alleviate pressure on the discs of the spine and subsequently stop pain and discomfort. Some practitioners also use intermittent traction.

Over the door traction is a technique that has become quite popular among patients with cervical problems. With this method, the person's neck is placed in a type of harness that is hung over a sturdy door. The harness is attached to weights, water bags or similar objects, and the latter are used to slowly stretch the area and hopefully eradicate pain and discomfort.

Slant boards or inversion tables are other types of equipment that are frequently used on patients with cervical problems. An inversion table is used to lower the head and chest so that gravity will gently pull these areas in a downward motion. This can also be accomplished by placing the patient on the aforementioned slant board. The latter is a wide plank that is cushioned and positioned on a simple fulcrum that remains stationary throughout the process. However, this particular technique is not suitable for those with blood pressure problems, vertigo, or glaucoma.

Simple neck braces are frequently used on such patients also. Devices of this kind are generally only worn when one is up and about, although individuals who need such braces while sleeping can be prescribed a softer version of the device. The brace selected will primarily depend on the reason for which it is being worn, and suggestions made by the patient's physician.

Additionally, some methods are available that do not require the use of mechanical devices. For example, some professionals recommended numerous yoga poses to reduce pressure in the cervical area. However, one's primary medical practitioner should be consulted before the person attempts such positions. This is because if they are completed inappropriately, they can make the patient's condition worse.

Using an orthopedic pillow is another basic form of traction therapy. Such devices were developed to support a person's shoulders with a large, high role, while allowing his or her head to hang down. It is not wise, however, to sleep on such a pillow, and they should only be used for a limited amount of time, which is approximately 30 minutes, unless one's physician directs him or her to use the device for longer period of time.

Due to the fact that there are numerous techniques available, patients must often try different therapies prior to discovering the one that offers the most benefits. A chiropractor or physician can give helpful suggestions regarding such treatments. It is never a good idea to try to oversee one's own therapy.

Neck traction equipment should never be used unless one is being instructed by a licensed medical practitioner. Trying to utilize such devices without appropriate supervision can lead to serious injuries. Any person suffering from cervical pain or similar problems should schedule a doctor's appointment without delay.




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