Cervical Traction

Choosing the Best Neck Stretcher

Cervical traction is the medical term for neck stretching. It involves slightly pulling the head to create additional space between vertebrae in the neck. This releases pressure and tension and relaxes the muscles. This is also referred to as spinal traction.

Cervical traction is done for neck relief and posture improvement. It uses force and counterforce to pull muscles, ligaments, and compressed discs in opposite directions. Neck stretching helps with disc degeneration, arthritis, neck strains, and sprains. This could be done by a professional or at home, manually, or with the help of a cervical traction device or a neck stretcher.

5 Tips To Choosing The Best Neck Stretcher

1. Consider The Types of Cervical Traction Devices

1. Pneumatic Cervical Traction Devices

These professional devices can also be used at home to treat whiplash, neck injuries, and pain from prolonged sitting. They can deliver up to 50 pounds of tension, and the treatment is similar to professional therapy. A pneumatic cervical traction device also has a gauge to adjust the pressure. To use a pneumatic neck traction device - 

• Lie down on your back on a flat surface, like the floor or bed, and place the device under your head and shoulders.
• Secure your head with straps.
• Adjust the tension to pull your head away from the body to extend the neck, stretch the muscles, and increase the space between the vertebrae.

A pneumatic device is optimal if you are looking for effective home therapy. 

2. Wearable Neck Decompression Device

Worn around the neck for a specified amount of time, a neck decompression device is a wearable brace that makes neck traction at home easy. The brace improves spine alignment, stretches the neck to reduce muscle tension and stiffness, and relieves pain in the neck and shoulders. You can move freely during treatment by simply wearing it around your neck, meaning you are not restricted to one spot to use it.

These neck braces are available in various sizes, but large-size models are best as they distribute the pressure around the neck. These can only be purchased with a prescription.

3. Inflatable Neck Stretcher

An inflatable neck stretcher is more affordable than other neck stretcher devices and does not require a prescription. It has a basic design, is easy to use, and does not restrain the head and neck. Some models of inflatable traction devices can be used while lying down, standing up, and moving. These types are less sophisticated, non-adjustable, and deliver less pressure. They also allow the user to set the pace of traction accordingly.

4. Over The Door Traction Devices

Over-the-door cervical traction devices are portable and usable at home or office. These types of devices are used while standing. A harness or sling attached to the pulley system over the door is attached to your head and neck. To begin stretching, the rope's end is either attached to a weight or connected to a cord.

Some door frame neck stretchers use water bags as weights, while others use pulleys, springs, or ratcheting systems. Over-the-door traction devices are the least expensive, pack easily for travel, and do not require a prescription. But, with advanced neck pain relief products now available, these devices have become outdated.

Before using any device, it is important to understand the equipment and its benefits. There are also some additional factors to consider before making a final decision, such as: 

2. Force or Pressure

The pressure requirement varies from patient to patient. While the standard range is 25-40 pounds, chronically tight and less compressed muscles need different pressure levels. Pressure up to 10 pounds or less can effectively treat muscles that are not severely compressed. 

3. Size of the Neck Stretcher

One size does not fit all. This issue mainly exists with pneumatic devices. Inflatable collars are available in various sizes, and wearable braces are more adjustable. Therefore, it is very important to make sure you choose the correct size and type of device by measuring the circumference of your neck. 

4. Portability of the Cervical Traction Device

You should be able to use your neck traction device while traveling and when you are outdoors. It should not restrict therapy only to the home. Many models can be packed in a carrying case or a suitcase. 

5. Room for Movement

If you want to add activity to your therapy, a wearable neck brace is the best fit, as you can continue your therapy and be mobile simultaneously. Pneumatic devices do not give you this option, as you are required to lie down for the therapy. The over-the-door devices are portable, but they also need you to stand in one place for the therapy. 

Research has found that a sitting position causes the user to lean forward, leading to more anterior compression. Inclined positions create greater intervertebral separations and benefit people with severe symptoms. 

 

Where to buy a neck stretcher?

HPFY carries a wide variety of cervical support products. Some of the best cervical traction devices are:

There are numerous options to select from depending on the device type, size, comfort, and pressure adjustment. If you have concerns or questions about neck stretching devices, make sure to consult your doctor. 

 

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