How Does Cervical Traction Work?

What Is Cervical Traction?

Cervical traction is a light stretching of the neck. The neck, or cervical spine, has seven vertebrae. Any of these can be injured from whiplash in a minor car accident, or even from sitting for extended periods of time at work or while driving.

Cervical traction helps create space between the vertebrae to keep the spinal discs healthy. It can be achieved through yoga poses, assisted stretching or with the help of a chiropractor, physical therapist or massage therapist.

Why Do Traction?

Untreated neck pain or discomfort can easily worsen and create a larger long-term problem. If not treated, an injured or compressed neck can lead to chronic neck pain or stiffness, and the pain could begin to move into the upper back and shoulders.

What Is An Example of Cervical Traction?

If you have an obvious neck injury, see your doctor. But if you suffer from minor neck pain and stiffness, you can achieve light cervical traction at home. Lie lengthwise on a large foam roller so that your feet are on the floor with your knees bent. Inhale to the top of your chest and exhale to your tailbone. Place your hands where your front pockets would be and do the breathing exercise for about five minutes. This will result in spinal traction throughout the spine.