Physical Therapy for Neck Pain
Physical Therapy for Neck Pain
One technique used by physical therapists and chiropractors to provide pain relief and improve motion is cervical traction. Traction gently extends the neck, opening the spaces between the cervical vertebrae and temporarily alleviating pressure on the affected discs. Neck traction can either be done continuously or intermittently, alternating between short periods of pulling and resting.
It’s also possible to do cervical traction at home. There are pulley systems that you can hook up to a doorway, or devices that will enable you to perform cervical traction while lying down. It’s important if you do cervical traction on your own to see your physical therapist first to make sure that you buy the right equipment and learn how to set it up correctly.
Cervical pillows (neck pillows) are designed to partially immobilize the neck while you sleep. However there is no research to support the effectiveness of cervical pillows. It’s a good idea to ask your physical therapist for a recommendation.
Soft cervical collars do not stabilize the neck as much as serve as a reminder to use good posture and range of motion techniques. Rigid cervical collars do immobilize the neck but are uncomfortable for long-term use.
Physical Therapy and Other Options for Neck Pain
In this article
- Stretch, Strengthen, and Straighten Up
- Neck Traction for Cervical Disc Disease
- Cervical Pillows and Collars for Cervical Disc Disease
Neck Traction for Cervical Disc Disease
One technique used by physical therapists and chiropractors to provide pain relief and improve motion is cervical traction. Traction gently extends the neck, opening the spaces between the cervical vertebrae and temporarily alleviating pressure on the affected discs. Neck traction can either be done continuously or intermittently, alternating between short periods of pulling and resting.
It’s also possible to do cervical traction at home. There are pulley systems that you can hook up to a doorway, or devices that will enable you to perform cervical traction while lying down. It’s important if you do cervical traction on your own to see your physical therapist first to make sure that you buy the right equipment and learn how to set it up correctly.
Cervical Pillows and Collars for Cervical Disc Disease
Cervical pillows (neck pillows) are designed to partially immobilize the neck while you sleep. However there is no research to support the effectiveness of cervical pillows. It’s a good idea to ask your physical therapist for a recommendation.
Soft cervical collars do not stabilize the neck as much as serve as a reminder to use good posture and range of motion techniques. Rigid cervical collars do immobilize the neck but are uncomfortable for long-term use.
Source...