Introduction:
This article discusses traction and how it can effectively treat spinal injuries and conditions. First, review the types of traction, how it works, the risks associated with traction, and the benefits they can offer.
What Is Traction?
Traction is a type of spinal treatment option that involves the application of a longitudinal force to the axis of the spine. This force is used to stabilize and change the position of some damaged regions of the spine. Traction can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including herniated discs (problem with a rubbery disc between the spinal bones), spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal cord), sciatica (pain radiating along the sciatica nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back), and more. The traction force is applied to the spine by using different techniques and tools. These may include a harness, belt, or traction table designed to gently move the spine in different directions.
Traction is usually done in a series of sessions and is often combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy or medications. Traction is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients. It does not require surgery or drugs and can help reduce pain and improve mobility. However, speaking with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if traction is the best treatment option.
How Does Traction Help?
A disc is a circular structure that sits between each vertebra. The outer layer tears when a disc is stressed, and the soft interior protrudes through the gap. Traction forces relieve pressure on the vertebrae and decompress the nerve.
The traction technique applies a gentle and constant force on the spine over time. This force helps stretch out tight muscles and ligaments in the spine, improving mobility, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. The traction force is usually applied using a pulley system or a unique traction table. Traction can be used for short-term relief of acute pain and long-term treatment of chronic pain. However, some people may need multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.
What Are the Different Types of Traction?
There are mainly three types of traction: Skeletal traction, skin traction, and cervical traction.
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Skeletal Traction: Skeletal traction is most commonly used to treat femur (or thighbone) fractures. It is also the preferred method when more force needs to be applied to the affected area. Because the force is applied directly to the bone, it can add more weight with less risk of causing damage to the surrounding soft tissues.
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Skin Traction: When soft tissues need to be repaired, skin traction is used to avoid irritation or damaging the skin and other soft tissues. For example, it stabilizes a broken bone until a definitive surgery is performed.
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Cervical Traction: Cervical traction could be used in two situations. First, it may be done to gently stretch the neck muscles to relieve or prevent muscle spasms. It is also used to immobilize the spine following a neck injury.
Who Benefits from Traction?
People with spinal problems benefit from traction because it reverses the effects of gravitational force. It is most commonly used to treat conditions such as:
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Neck Pain- Pain in the neck and shoulder region that varies in intensity and may feel achy or like an electric shock from the neck to the arm.
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Bone Spurs- A bony growth that develops on the edge of a bone, sometimes causing symptoms like pain and swelling.
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Herniated Disc Disease- Herniated disc disease is a problem with a rubbery disc between the spinal bones.
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Degenerative Disc Disease- This is a condition of the discs between vertebrae with cushioning loss, fragmentation, and herniation related to aging.
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Sciatica- Pain radiates along the sciatica nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back. It is usually caused when a herniated disk or bone spur in the spine presses on the nerve.
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Facet Disease- It is a condition in which the spine joints become a source of pain.
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Stenosis- A spinal canal narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and the nerve within the spine.
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Spondylitis- Inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine and large joints common among men.
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Pinched Nerves- Occur when too much pressure or compression is applied to the nerve by the surrounding tissue structure.
What Are the Side Effects of Spinal Traction?
Spinal traction can sometimes aggravate the original condition's pain. For example, people with osteoporosis (bones become weak and brittle) or certain cancers should not use traction therapy. Although traction is generally considered a safe treatment for spinal disorders, it comes with risks and side effects. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pain during the treatment. In addition, nerve injury occurs if the force applied is too strong or the person receiving the traction has a pre-existing nerve condition. Always consult a doctor about any potential risks before undergoing the treatment.
How Is Spinal Traction Done?
Depending upon the needs, spinal traction is administered manually or mechanically.
Manual Spinal Traction:
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Manual spinal traction is a form of manual therapy that uses the therapist's hands to provide a sustained force to an area of the spine. Then they use manual force on the joint and muscles to widen the vertebral space. As a result, they can help improve the range of motion, reduce pain, and relax muscles.
Mechanical Spinal Traction:
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Mechanical spinal traction uses an apparatus or device to provide a sustained force along the length of the spine. This type of traction is typically applied for long-term treatments. It is designed to correct misalignments and restore standard movement patterns. First, the patient will lie on a table with special tools to stretch the spine during mechanical spinal traction. Next, a physical therapist will use ropes, slings, and pulleys to relieve pressure on the body mechanically.
What Are the Benefits of Spinal Traction?
Spinal traction produces pain relief and proper spinal alignment and relieves decompressed joints. In addition, spinal traction stretches the muscles and bones in the back and counteracts the effects of gravity. Under proper guidance, this could drastically improve how a person moves and feels throughout the day.
Is Traction Right for Me?
A traction is an excellent option for those looking for a non-surgical way to help with spinal issues, from disc herniation and sciatica to facet joint syndrome and spinal stenosis. Traction is an excellent option for those looking for a non-surgical way to help with spinal issues. It can treat various spinal problems, such as disc herniation and sciatica. When considering traction, it is essential to understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. The traction received will depend on the type and severity of the spinal issue and overall health. The doctor will also evaluate the body mechanics, posture, and range of motion before recommending traction.
It is also important to note that traction may not provide a cure-all solution for spinal issues. Depending on the severity of the problem, traction may need to be combined with other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications, to achieve the desired results.
Finally, it is essential to remember that traction should only be performed by a trained professional. If done incorrectly, traction can cause more harm than good, so make sure to find a qualified healthcare provider who has experience in providing this type of treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, traction is a viable option for treating spine-related issues. They stabilize or change the position of damaged parts of the spine and help restore function and mobility. However, as with any medical treatment, it is essential to discuss with the doctor whether traction is the best solution for treating the condition.
