Cervical/Lumbar Traction
Cervical spine traction is used for the short-term treatment of neck pain. It is designed to relieve muscle spasms and nerve root compression. Using a manual (hands only) or mechanical technique, a stead or intermittent force is applied to the neck to stretch the muscles and soft tissue and open up the spaces between the vertebrae. The physical therapist determines the amount of force and length of time a person remains in traction.
Similarly, lumbar traction is the continuous or intermittent application of force to the spine either manually or mechanically. The goals of lumbar traction is to reduce the pain associated with nerve root impingement and muscle spasms. It is also use to treat degenerative disc disease, herniated or protruding discs and osteoarthritis. As with cervical spine traction, the process separates the space between the vertebrae, which decompresses discs, alleviates pain and supports healing.