Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Cervical Traction Device Delivers Relief

By Debra Cooley


Many people are afflicted with intense neck pain due to a myriad of probable causes. They often seek out their doctor or chiropractor's advice on the best way to obtain relief from these ailments. A huge number of them find that the application of a cervical traction device is the most effective method of getting respite from the hurt of a lot of issues ranging from headaches to herniated discs.

These traction devices work on a relatively simple premise. A force is applied to the neck in order to stretch the soft tissue and reduce the pressure in the cervical region, which also relieves spasms. These tools come in many different forms that are designed for use both in a doctor's office and at home.

Used to treat multiple issues including muscle spasms, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis related neck pains, bulging discs, numbness in the upper extremities, aching backs and jaws as well as headaches, this practice is becoming quite common. Many consider it to be the premier method for restoring posture to correct positioning. Several studies show that it is capable of diminishing severe migraines in approximately twenty minutes.

While it is believed this process was first practiced by the Ancient Egyptians, it has only been utilized in a clinical application since the 1930's. Although the practice is generally low impact and perfectly safe, it should not be undertaken without the consent of one's personal physician. There are certain situations such as cancer, specific infections, ruptured discs and pregnancy that are not conducive to type of treatment for various reasons.

The therapy works by gently stretching the spinal vertebra, as well as the soft tissue and muscles surrounding them. The purpose is to relieve the pressure on the discs and the nerves that may be pinched between them. When everything has been properly realigned, the necessary fluids are again able to circulate, easing pain, stiffness and other symptoms.

It is only recommended that the activity be performed just 15 minutes per session. While it is safe to repeat the therapy multiple times in one day, there should be a minimum of 2 hours between. Anyone choosing this option needs to recognize the limits of their own body and heed the advice of their medical adviser because doing it too often could actually prove to be more harmful than helpful.

In many cases, a therapist will manually manipulate the patient's neck by gently stretching and supporting their heads when in a lying position. They may also place their subject in an over the door sling that uses a mechanical mechanism to slowly pull up on the skull via the jaw. When treating at home, many people will use an accordion type of collar that is inflated via a hand pump held by the wearer to push up on the skull and extend the cervical section of the 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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