Sunday, October 20, 2013

Essential Facts About Neck Traction Equipment

By Megan Landry


Neck traction is a type of physical therapy designed to alleviate pain by gently stretching the cervical area of the spine. Physicians, chiropractors, and therapists frequently use this technique to relieve neck pain. However, it is also possible for patients to perform certain techniques in the privacy of their own home, if quality neck traction equipment is available.

Health care practitioners perform traction in a variety of ways. They may use mechanical devices designed to gradually open up the spaces that exist between each cervical vertebrae. This in turn relieves pressure on the spinal discs and alleviates pain and discomfort. Certain professionals use intermittent traction as well.

A method called over the door traction is favored among certain individuals with cervical issues. With this technique, the person's neck is positioned in a type of harness that is a attached over a strong door. The harness holds either weights or water bags, the latter of which are utilized to gradually stretch the area and ultimately alleviate pain and discomfort.

Inversion tables or slant boards are other kinds of devices that are often used on individuals with problems in the cervical area. Inversion tables are utilized to lower the chest and head of the person in order to encourage gravity to gently pull this section of the individual's body in a downward direction. A slant board can be used for this purpose as well. The latter is a wide, cushioned board that is positioned on a basic fulcrum that remains stationary during the procedure. This specific method, however, is not appropriate for individuals with glaucoma, vertigo, or blood pressure conditions.

A simple neck brace is often recommended as well. Such braces are typically only worn during the day, although it is sometimes necessary for a person to wear a softer version of such a brace while sleeping. This decision will largely depend on the purpose for which the brace is being worn, and on the recommendations made by the individual's doctor.

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 orthopedic pillows is also considered a therapeutic measure. Such devices feature a high, large role that supports the individual's shoulders, while allowing his or her head to hang down. They are not appropriate for use while one is sleeping, however, and should not be left in place for more than half an hour unless a doctor instructs the patient to do so.

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 always be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. Attempting to use such devices without proper instructions can result in serious injury. Anyone suffering from cervical problems or chronic pain should seek the advice of a medical practitioner as soon as possible.




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