Biotronix Cervical Cum Lumber Traction Therapy Machine Digital Premium Model used in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation make in India

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Biotronix Cervical Cum Lumber Traction Therapy Machine Digital Premium Model used in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation make in India

BENEFITS AND FEATURES:

Patients 's safety switch.                                     

Audiovisual alarm. 

Low Power consumption. 

Static- Intermittent switch. 

Digital treatment timer 

Digital REST Time  Indicator and Selection Key 

Digital Hold Time Indicator and Selection Key 

Weight Adjustable  5 kg to 45 kg with doubler


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Hold time        : 0-99 Sec Digitally 

Release time   : 0-99 Sec Digitally 

Input Voltage  : 220 volt 50 cycles

Traction Force  : 5 to 45 kg with doublers up to 90 kg

Alarms               : Electronic timer with digital display

Consumption    :85 watts

Key Benefits:

  • Traction Force : Adjustable from 5 kg to 45 kg. 90kg with doubler 
  • Traction Hold Time : Adjustable from 0 to 99 Sec
  •  Rest Time  : Adjustable from 0 to 99 Sec
  • Treatment Time : Continuously adjustable from 0 to 99 minutes,
  • Displays : Digital display of Hold Time, Rest Time , Treatment Time & LED based Display of Trac Mode
  • Auto-Tension-adjustment : The set traction force is automatically maintained throughout the operation.
  • Patient Safety : Patient Stop, hand held switch.

Technical Specifications:

  • Electronic Hold Time : 0 -99 Sec 
  • Rest Time : 0-99 Sec
  • Timer : 0 - 99 min
  • Therapy Mode : Static / Intermittent
  • Tension Weight : 5-45 Kg with Dabbler Pulley upto 90Kg
  • Power Supply : 220-240 V AC. (use stabilizer).

Key Features:

  • Cost Effective
  • High Quality
  • LED Display
  • Time Display
  • Different modes
  • Both Cervical and Lumbar Traction
  • Runs with electricity
  • 1 Year Offsite Warranty
  • Ease of Use

Package Contents:

  • 1 pc Biotronix Cervical Cum Lumber Traction Therapy Machine Digital Premium Model used in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation make in India
  • 1 Pc Traction rod ,
  • 1 Pc Neck Collar Belt ( Cervical Traction Collar ),
  • 1 pc Lumbar Belt,
  • 1 pc Thoracic Belt,
  • 1 pc Main line cord,
  • 1 pc Patient switch ,
  • 1 pc Doubler
  • 1 Complementary Physio Chart Set  ( 6 Physio Charts ) 

 

Warranty Details: 1 Year Offsite Warranty for Equipment against manufacturing defects ,No warranty or Guarantee for the Accessories like wire pads Applicator etc .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT IS TRACTION THERAPY?

A traction is a treatment option that is based on the application of a longitudinal force to the axis of the spinal column. In other words, parts of the spinal column are pulled in opposite directions to stabilize or change the position of damaged aspects of the spine. The force is usually applied to the skull through a series of weights or a fixation device and requires that the patient is either kept in bed or placed in a halo vest. Traction is a manual technique designed to reduce pressure on affected vertebral discs that are causing pain. Traction is a manual ‘stretching’ of the spine which reduces pressure on the discs and therefore reduces the individual’s pain.

Cervical traction is commonly performed using manual, mechanical, or motorized methods (with a head or chin sling) or with the use of a supine posterior distraction unit. Mechanical cervical traction can be applied in the supine position, which reduces the weight of the head but increases frictional resistance. This position also allows for better control of the head by the patient and is typically more comfortable.

Lumbar traction requires a significantly greater force to create a distraction of the vertebral segments than cervical traction. Common traction systems include a thoracic or chest belt with a pelvic belt, inversion, a split traction table, or an auto traction table. Split traction tables have a mobile half and a stationary half. Auto traction tables allow both segments of the table to move and are controlled by the patient. The patient assumes the most pain-free position and performs active traction by pulling on an overhead bar. The patient then uses his or her feet to activate a bar, which alternates compressive and distracting forces.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRACTION THERAPY?

Spinal traction therapy can be administered manually or mechanically, depending upon your need.

 

Manual Traction: In manual spinal traction, a physical therapist uses their hands to put people in a state of traction. Then they use manual force on the joints and muscles to widen the spaces between vertebrae. The period of traction generally doesn’t last very long. Manual traction sounds quite scary however it is a safe treatment option that can be effective for certain conditions.

 

Mechanical Traction: The specialized treatment technique of mechanical traction uses devices that work by stretching the spinal vertebrae and muscle. Mechanical traction allows for continuous or intermittent stretching on a traction table while combining heat, vibration, and/or massage. These tables can use computer-based systems to apply exact amounts and/or variations of pressure. Mechanical traction is, however, not appropriate for patients with serious bone conditions such as osteoporosis, osteomyelitis and bone cancer, or with heart disease and spinal cord diseases. It is also not appropriate for those with spinal fractures or arthritis. This type of treatment should only be considered following careful examination and diagnosis, and professionally supervised by a licensed physical therapist or doctor to ensure effectiveness and safety

 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

A disc is a circular structure that sits between each vertebra in the spine. It has a tough outer layer surrounding soft inner tissue. When a disc is under pressure and damaged, the tough outer layer is damaged and the soft inside protrudes through the gap. This protrusion compresses nearby nerves causing pain. Traction pulls the vertebra away from the disc, releasing the pressure on the disc. This assists the soft part of the disc to return within the disc. This decompresses the nerve and reduces pain. This also helps to rehydrate the disc. Traction relieves pressure on the spine and alleviates pain. Cervical traction and lumbar traction are similar, but they have a couple of key differences: with cervical traction, a gentle force is used to stretch or pull the head away from the neck. With lumbar traction, a gentle force is used to gently gap the pelvis from the lower back. Both of these methods are useful in manipulating the spine and providing relief.

CONDITIONS TREATED?

Traction is a technique used to stretch soft tissues and separate joint surfaces or bone fragments using a pulling force. The force applied must be of sufficient magnitude and duration in the proper direction while resisting movement of the body with an equal and opposite force. People with specific spinal conditions benefit from this therapy and is most commonly used to treat:

 

 

Lumbar Traction

Definition/Description

Lumbar traction is the process of applying a stretching force to the lumbar vertebrae through body weight, weights, and/or pulleys to distract individual joints of the lumbar spine. The word traction is a derivative of the Latin word "tractico", which means "a process of drawing or pulling, and various forms of spinal traction have been described, since the time of Hippocrates, for the relief of pain.

James Cyriax popularised lumbar traction during the 1950s and 1960s as a treatment for disc protrusions, and until today, it is still a common modality for treating patients with back pain and leg pain. The effectiveness has been questioned by a few clinical trial and recent guidelines published by NICE in the UK, KCE in Belgium, the Danish Health Authority and the American College of Physician's no longer endorses traction as a therapy modality in the treatment of low back pain. James Cyriax describes three benefits of lumbar traction: distraction to increase the intervertebral space, tensing of the posterior longitudinal vertebral ligament to exert centripetal force at the back of the joint and suction to draw the disc protrusion towards the center of the joint. Some other effects attributed to traction include widening of the intervertebral foramen and distraction of the apophyseal joints.Clinically Relevant Anatomy

The lumbar spine is made up of five individual vertebrae which are numbered L1 to L5 and together they create the concave lumbar curvature in the lower back. Found along the body’s midline in the lumbar (lower back) region, the lumbar vertebrae make up the region of the spine inferior to the thoracic vertebrae in the thorax and superior to the sacrum and coccyx in the pelvis.These vertebrae carry all of the upper body’s weight while providing flexibility and movement to the trunk region. They also protect the delicate spinal cord and nerves within their vertebral canal.

 

Connecting each vertebra to its neighbouring vertebra is an intervertebral disk made of tough fibrocartilage with a jelly-like centre. The outer layer of the intervertebral disk, the annulus fibrosis, holds the vertebrae together and provides strength and flexibility to the back during movement. The jelly-like nucleus pulposus acts as a shock absorber to resist the strain and pressure exerted on the lower back.

The lumbar vertebrae are the some of the largest and heaviest vertebrae in the spine, second in size only to the sacrum. A cylinder of bone known as the vertebral body makes up the majority of the lumbar vertebrae’s mass and bears most of the body’s weight. Posteriorly the body is connected to a thin ring of bone known as the arch. The arch surrounds the hollow vertebral foramen and connects the body to the bony processes on the posterior of the vertebra. The vertebral foramen is a large, triangular opening in the center of the vertebra that provides space for the spinal cord, cauda equina, and meninges as they pass through the lower back.

Extending from the vertebral arch are several bony processes that are involved in muscle attachment and movement of the lower back. The spinous process extends from the posterior end of the arch as a thin rectangle of bone. It serves as a connection point for the muscles of the back and pelvis, such as the psoas major and interspinales. On the left and right lateral sides of each vertebra are the short, triangular transverse processes. The transverse processes form important connection points for many muscles, including the rotatores and multifidus muscles that extend and rotate the trunk.

Unlike the cervical vertebrae in the neck, the lumbar vertebrae lack the transverse foramina in the transverse processes, and also lack facets to either side of the body. The fifth lumbar vertebra is distinct from the L1-4 vertebrae in being much larger on its front side than in the back. Its spinous process, on the other hand, is smaller than in the other lumbar vertebrae with a wide, four-sided shape that comes to a rough edge and a thick notch.

Types of Lumbar Traction

Several types of lumbar traction are described in literature but the most used include:

  1. Continuous Traction - Continuous or bed traction uses low weights for extended periods of time (up to several hours at a time). This long duration requires that only small amounts of weight be used. It is generally believed that this type of traction is ineffective in actually separating the spinal structures. In other words, the patient cannot tolerate weights great enough to cause separation of the vertebrae for that length of time.
  2. Sustained Traction - This type of traction involves heavier weights applied steadily for short periods of time (for periods from a few minutes up to 1 hr). Sustained traction is sometimes referred to as static traction.
  3. Intermittent Mechanical Traction - Intermittent traction is similar to sustained traction in intensity and duration but utilises a mechanical unit to alternately apply and release the traction force at preset intervals
  4. Manual Traction - Manual traction is applied as the clinician's hands and/or a belt are used to pull on the patient's legs. It is usually applied for a few seconds duration or can be applied as a sudden, quick thrust.
  5. Autotraction - Autotraction utilises a specially designed table that is divided into two sections that can be individually tilted and rotated. The patient provides the traction force by pulling with the arms and/or pushing with the feet. Investigations of autotraction have reported favourable clinical results but no change in size or location of lumbar disc herniation
  6. Positional Traction - This form of traction is applied by placing the patient in various positions using pillows, blocks, or sandbags to effect a longitudinal pull on the spinal structures. It usually incorporates lateral bending and is only affected to one side of the spinal segment
  7. Gravity lumbar traction - This involves using a chest harness to secure the patient as the treatment table is tilted to a vertical position, thereby using the weight of the lower half of the body to provide a traction force.

Mechanism of Action

Several theories have been proposed to explain the possible clinical benefit of traction therapy. Distracting the motion segment is thought to change the position of the nucleus pulposus relative to the posterior annulus fibrosus or change the disc-nerve interface. These effects are plausible based on studies examining the kinematics of the lumbar spine during traction therapies. In addition to separating the vertebrae, traction has been shown to reduce nucleus pulposus pressure and increase foraminal area. However, it is unlikely that mechanical changes observed in a prone position will be sustained after a patient resumes an upright, weight bearing posture. Any lasting clinical response to traction therapy would more likely be because of the effect of traction on the mechanobiology of the motion segment or neural tissues. Complicating the issue further is that not all traction therapies exert the same force on the spine and animal studies have found the mechanobiology of the disc to be sensitive to the amount, frequency, and duration of loading

It is possible that some forms of traction stimulate disc or joint repair  whereas others promote tissue degradation. Although these variables have not been systematically examined, even in animal models, what is known regarding disc mechanobiology should alert us to the possibility that not all traction therapies are equal. If distracting the spine can influence disc and joint mechanobiology, different modes of traction may result in different clinical results. Systematic reviews of lumbar traction therapy have typically not considered that different effects may exist based on force and time parameters . Traction trials have most often included patients with a mix of clinical presentations including back-dominant low back pain (LBP), leg-dominant LBP, or both. However, a patient with only dominant LBP and no radiculopathy is likely experiencing pain from a sclerotomal source, such as facet joints or disc, whereas sciatic pain, even if caused by disc herniation, may be predominately of neural origin. Although it is reasonable to suspect that traction therapies may affect these conditions differently, there is insufficient evidence to support this hypothesis.

Distraction-manipulation and positional distraction are mechanically different than traditional traction (intermittent or sustained). Rather than allowing forces to be dispersed throughout the lumbar tissues, these treatments attempt to concentrate them in a smaller area. AT, for example, allows the patient to concentrate the force by finding the position that most relieves their pain and applying distraction in that position. Distraction-manipulation, most often used by chiropractors and physical therapists, is performed on treatment tables that allow the operator to determine the moment-to-moment vector and timing of the distractive force. These techniques include FD (Cox technique), Leander technique, and Saunders Active Trac method, among others.

 

ADVANTAGES TO TRACTION THERAPY

Traction therapy, or spinal decompression therapy, is a nonsurgical treatment that uses manual or mechanical means to stretch the spine and relieve pain among affected discs. This treatment repositions herniated or bulging discs, decreasing pressure on the back.

Traction therapy can be performed two ways:

  • Manual traction – when a therapist uses their hands to apply force on the spinal joints
  • Mechanical traction – a special device stretches the spine

Traction therapy can treat a variety of conditions and injuries, some of which include sciatica, herniated or bulging discs, facet disease, pinched nerves, and degenerative disc disease. Most physiotherapists include this treatment with other forms of therapy as part of a total care plan.

When this therapy is applied properly, patients can enjoy a number of benefits. Some of them are:

1. Pain relief. Applied force helps straighten the spine in a controlled manner, relieving pressure that often causes pain. It also allows a better physical environment for the healing process.

2, Treatment for several conditions. Traction therapy can be used as a treatment plan for several medical conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spinal arthritis.

3. No surgery required. Treatment doesn’t require invasive surgery but instead relies on applying controlled force to the patient’s spine. Patients merely lie on a table while a therapist or machine applies force. Clothing is sometimes repositioned but rarely removed.

4. Can be used with other treatments. Traction therapy can be used alongside other treatments for a more personalized and holistic health plan. Some therapies that may be included are electric stimulation, cold or hot therapy, and ultrasound application (during or after the session).

5. Promotes overall healing. Pressure properly applied to the disc releases healing nutrients that speed the body’s natural healing process. Traction therapy also increases the effectiveness of other treatments, resulting in faster overall recovery.

Spinal decompression therapy is a very effective treatment. For eligible patients, therapists must first make a thorough physical assessment to prevent further injury. Some patients who are not qualified for spinal stretching include pregnant women, patients with tumors on their spine, and any those who have experienced unsuccessful back surgery.

PARC of Ontario offers a variety of treatments to relieve back pain, including traction therapy. Our team of qualified therapists is ready to treat spinal injury with our latest equipment. Contact us at any of our centres to schedule an appointment.

 

What is a spinal traction?

Spinal traction is a form of decompression therapy that relieves pressure on the spine. It can be performed manually or mechanically.

Spinal traction is used to treat herniated discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, and many other back conditions.

Spinal traction stretches the spine to take pressure off compressed discs. This straightens the spine and improves the body’s ability to heal itself.

Candidates

People with spinal conditions benefit from this therapy because the traction reverses the force of gravity. It is most commonly used to treat:

  • slipped discs
  • bone spurs
  • degenerative disc disease
  • herniated discs
  • facet disease
  • sciatica
  • foramina stenosis
  • pinched nerves

Spinal traction therapy can be administered manually or mechanically, depending on your needs.

Manual spinal traction

In manual spinal traction, a physical therapist uses their hands to put people in a state of traction. Then they use manual force on the joints and muscles to widen the spaces between vertebrae.

Mechanical spinal traction

In mechanical spinal traction, you will lie on a table that has special tools to stretch the spine. A physical therapist will attach a series of ropes, slings, and pulleys to your body to mechanically relieve pressure.



Spinal traction is a non-surgical way to relieve pain and correct problems in the spine. While it does have some potential side effects, spinal traction offers consistent relief for most people.

There are no long-term risks of spinal traction. Some side effects may occur during or after treatment. Many people experience muscle spasms after traction. Some have pain in the treated areas.

Spinal traction is not for everyone. A physician can determine if the risks are worth the potential rewards based on your medical history.

 

What Is Traction?

In the medical field, traction refers to the practice of slowly and gently pulling on a fractured or dislocated body part. It’s often done using ropes, pulleys, and weights. These tools help apply force to the tissues surrounding the damaged area.

The purpose of traction is to guide the body part back into place and hold it steady. Traction may be used to:

  • stabilize and realign bone fractures, such as a broken arm or leg
  • help reduce the pain of a fracture before surgery
  • treat bone deformities caused by certain conditions, such as scoliosis
  • correct stiff and constricted muscles, joints, tendons, or skin
  • stretch the neck and prevent painful muscle spasms

 

The two main types of traction are skeletal traction and skin traction. The type of traction used will depend on the location and the nature of the problem.

Skeletal Traction

Skeletal traction involves placing a pin, wire, or screw in the fractured bone. After one of these devices has been inserted, weights are attached to it so the bone can be pulled into the correct position. This type of surgery may be done using a general, spinal, or local anesthetic to keep you from feeling pain during the procedure.

The amount of time needed to perform skeletal traction will depend on whether it’s a preparation for a more definitive procedure or the only surgery that’ll be done to allow the bone to heal.

Skeletal traction is most commonly used to treat fractures of the femur, or thighbone. It’s also the preferred method when greater force needs to be applied to the affected area. The force is directly applied to the bone, which means more weight can be added with less risk of damaging the surrounding soft tissues.

Skin Traction

Skin traction is far less invasive than skeletal traction. It involves applying splints, bandages, or adhesive tapes to the skin directly below the fracture. Once the material has been applied, weights are fastened to it. The affected body part is then pulled into the right position using a pulley system attached to the hospital bed.

Skin traction is used when the soft tissues, such as the muscles and tendons, need to be repaired. Less force is applied during skin traction to avoid irritating or damaging the skin and other soft tissues. Skin traction is rarely the only treatment needed. Instead, it’s usually used as a temporary way to stabilize a broken bone until the definitive surgery is performed.

Cervical Traction

During cervical traction, a metal brace is placed around your neck. The brace is then attached to a body harness or weights, which are used to help correct the affected area. Cervical traction is performed using a general anesthetic, so you’ll be asleep throughout the entire procedure.

Cervical traction might be used in two different situations. First, it may be done to gently stretch the neck muscles so muscle spasms can be relieved or prevented. It may also be performed to immobilize the spine after a neck injury.

If you’re treated with traction, you’ll probably need to participate in an inpatient or an outpatient treatment program. These programs often consist of physical and occupational therapy to help you regain your strength and relearn skills that may have been affected by your injury. A therapist can also teach you new skills to compensate for any pain, weakness, or paralysis you may have experienced as a result of being injured.

The first few days after traction is performed can be difficult. The muscles are often weak since you must spend a lot of time in bed after traction is performed. Moving around and walking may be challenging and can make you tired. However, it’s important to stick with any rehabilitation program so that you can improve your chances of making a complete recovery.



There are risks involved in all surgical procedures. These risks include:

  • an adverse reaction to the anesthesia
  • excessive bleeding
  • an infection of the pin site
  • damage to the surrounding tissue
  • nerve injury or vascular injury from too much weight being applied

It’s important to contact your doctor if:

  • the prescribed medications aren’t relieving your pain
  • the skin around the pin site becomes red, hot, or swollen
  • there’s drainage

Traction used to be considered a state-of-the-art treatment. In recent years, however, other surgical techniques have become more advanced and more effective in correcting fractures, damaged muscles, and spinal conditions. Traction also doesn’t allow for much movement after surgery, so the recovery time is often much longer. Today, it’s used primarily as a temporary measure until the definitive procedure is done. Traction saved many lives during World War II by allowing soldiers to be transported safely without injury to their surrounding tissues.

However, traction can be beneficial in treating certain conditions. It’s very effective in providing temporary pain relief in the early stages of treatment after trauma.

 

Cervical Traction for Neck Pain

What is cervical traction?

Traction of the spine, known as cervical traction, is a popular treatment for neck pain and related injuries. Essentially, cervical traction pulls your head away from your neck to create expansion and eliminate compression. It’s considered to be an alternative treatment for neck pain, helping people avoid the need for medication or surgeries. It can be used as part of a physical therapy treatment or on your own at home.

Cervical traction devices lightly stretch the neck to reduce pressure on the spine by pulling or separating the vertebrae. It’s said to be both highly effective and fast-acting. Read on to learn more about this technique and how it can be of benefit to you.


Cervical traction devices treat different types and causes of neck pain, tension, and tightness. Cervical traction helps to relax the muscles, which can significantly relieve pain and stiffness while increasing flexibility. It’s also used to treat and flatten bulging or herniated disks. It can alleviate pain from joints, sprains, and spasms. It’s also used to treat neck injuries, pinched nerves, and cervical spondylosis.

Cervical traction devices work by stretching the spinal vertebrae and muscles to relieve pressure and pain. Force or tension is used to stretch or pull the head away from the neck. Creating space between the vertebrae relieves compression and allows the muscles to relax. This lengthens or stretches the muscles and joints around the neck.

These improvements may lead to improved mobility, range of motion, and alignment. This will allow you to go about your daily activities with greater ease.

A 2017 meta-analysis of studies analyzed the effectiveness of cervical traction in relieving neck pain. This report found that the treatment significantly reduced neck pain immediately following treatment. Pain scores were also reduced in the follow-up period. More in-depth, high-quality studies are needed to learn more about the long-term effects of this treatment.

A 2014 study found that mechanical traction was effective in treating people with pinched nerves and neck pain. Mechanical traction was more effective than exercising alone or exercising in addition to using over-door traction.

There are several ways to do cervical traction, either with a physical therapist or on your own at home. Your physical therapist can help you to decide upon the best method to suit your needs.

Your physical therapist may recommend that you buy cervical traction equipment to use at home. Certain devices may require you to have a prescription. Cervical traction devices are available online and in medical supply stores. Your physical therapist should show you how to use the device properly before you use it on your own.

It’s important that you check in with your physical therapist even if you’re doing a home treatment. They’ll make sure you’re doing the best treatment, measure your progress, and adjust your therapy as necessary.

Manual cervical traction

Manual cervical traction is done by a physical therapist. While you’re lying down, they’ll gently pull your head away from your neck. They’ll hold this position for a period of time before releasing and repeating. Your physical therapist will make adjustments to your exact positioning in order to get the best results.

Mechanical cervical traction

Mechanical cervical traction is done by a physical therapist. A harness is attached to your head and neck as you’re lying flat on your back. The harness hooks up to a machine or system of weights that apply traction force to pull your head away from your neck and spine.

Over-the-door cervical traction

An over-the-door traction device is for home use. You attach your head and neck to a harness. This is connected to a rope that’s part of a weighted pulley system that goes over a door. This can be done while sitting, leaning back, or lying down.


Generally, it’s safe to perform cervical traction, but remember that results are different for everyone. The treatment should be totally pain-free.

It’s possible that you can experience side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea upon adjusting your body in this manner. This may even lead to fainting. Stop if you experience any of these side effects, and discuss them with your doctor or physical therapist.

It’s possible for you to injure your tissue, neck, or spine. You should avoid cervical traction if you have:

It’s important that you follow any safety instructions and recommendations provided by your doctor or by the manufacturer. Make sure you’re performing the movements correctly and using the appropriate amount of weight. Don’t overexert yourself by doing cervical traction for too long. Discontinue use if you experience any pain or irritation or if your symptoms get worse.

What is Lumbar Traction in Physiotherapy

Every one of you must have experienced or if not experienced, must have seen/ heard of people taking lumbar traction for back pain. It relieves your back pain without medication, not only but it also cures complicated pain cases such as sciatica, disc hernia preventing the sufferer to go for painful surgery. This is the magic of traction.

Just visit any hospital with a physiotherapy unit or any independent physiotherapy centre you are sure to spot the traction table. But, it is always given under the supervision of the qualified physiotherapist.

It is an integral part of the physiotherapy treatment process. In this post, we will try to understand the basic principle of traction with lumbar traction as an example.

What is lumbar traction?

Traction is a  broad term, it involves the process of application of a distraction to the body part by using weight or a mechanical pull. When the traction is applied over the lumbar area using a traction machine then it is termed as lumbar traction. In common practice, traction is also used for neck pain, knee, low back pain. But it is also used for the leg after the fracture of the leg bone and for hip bone after the fracture of the neck of the femur.

However, here we are only concerned with spinal traction for the lower back, i.e lumbar traction.

This is how we can define spinal traction:

It is the application of distraction force over the vertebrae in an attempt to separate two vertebral bodies from each other. In lumbar spinal traction, the pull is applied over the lower back.

How lumbar traction is applied


With time there is a significant improvement in the methods of traction application. Slowly it has evolved towards a more automated and mechanical way, where the force of pull and its duration of application is under control. We can easily change the duration and its force with the press of a button.

Manual lumbar traction

In older days the process was entirely different. It was given using weight such as sand-bag and bricks that uses gravity to create pull. For this, the person is first made to lie flat on the bed with a lumbar belt on.

The belt comes with hooks on either side to attach the rope. On the other end of the rope, a calculated measure of weight was hanged. It creates a pulling force on the back which is given for 20 to 30 minutes of duration.

However, it carries some demerits. Continuous traction for 20 to 30 minutes would sometimes aggravate the pain due to muscle soreness.

I personally never use manual traction one in my practice.

 

Mechanical traction

The need to avoid continuous pull paved a way for the development of mechanical traction device. A mechanical traction unit consists of a traction machine with motors fitted on the couch/table that creates a pulling force. One can easily control the pulling force through its control unit. One of the most important benefits of this kind of traction is we can easily choose between continuous traction and interrupted traction.


A traction machine

In my clinical practice, I prefer interrupted traction over the continuous mode. One should carefully choose the weight for lumbar traction. It depends solely on the body weight of the person himself and its calculation is very easy.

Lumbar traction weight calculation

The obvious question is how much weight is safe and effective?

Every person that comes to you will differ in terms of weight, height and build. The weight that may be effective for one may be too weight or too light for another. You need to calculate the weight for each and every different person.

Thankfully calculating weight is not difficult. There a rule of thumb according to which the weight of pull for lumbar traction would be 1/3rd the weight of the .

Note: Weight of pull for neck/ cervical traction is 1/7th of the weight of the body.

For example, a person weighs 65 kg, then the force of pull would be roughly 1/3rd of 60 kg, that would be 21.5 kg. So, in this situation, 25 kg would be ideal.

More on mechanical lumbar traction

Continuous pull produces muscle soreness but what when we interrupt it by a short duration of the relaxing period?

Let me be a little more specific with this example, let’s take a total duration of pull as 10 minutes. So in interrupted traction, every 40 seconds there is an interruption of 10 seconds relaxing period. This is only possible in this mechanized way. The mechanized traction unit consists of a motorized traction machine, a bed, one chest piece belt, and a low back piece belt.



The illustration below shows all the important parts, the  of a mechanized traction machine.

lumbar traction physical therapy

It has a control button from where we can control the hold time (traction) and release time (relaxation) depending on the nature and severity of the case. The detail on this topic is beyond the scope of this article.

How to apply lower back traction at home

Is it possible to get the benefit of lumbar traction physical therapy at home?

Yes! It is possible. You can use the lumbar traction kit specially designed for the home.  Just take care of how much weight /force you are using to apply force. Start with low weight and then progress.

 

Cervical Traction for Neck Pain

Cervical traction is a treatment often used in physical therapy to help treat neck pain and cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves). It involves gently stretching your neck and separating the disc and joint surfaces in your cervical spine (neck).

Physical Therapy for Neck Pain

If you have neck pain or pain in your arm coming from your neck, your healthcare provider may refer you to a physical therapist (PT) to help treat your condition. Neck pain can limit your ability to turn your head, look up or down, or perform normal activities like sleeping or exercising.

Symptoms that often come from your neck include:


  • Pain in the middle of your neck
  • Pain in one side of your neck
  • Pain in one or both of your shoulder blades
  • Occasionally, pain or numbness and tingling in your arm or hand

Since many different symptoms coming from your neck can be felt in many different places, it's important to see your healthcare provider or physical therapist to help determine the cause of your symptoms and to decide on the best way to manage your condition.

If you visit a physical therapist to help treat your painful neck condition, he or she will likely perform an initial assessment and then prescribe various treatments. One such treatment is cervical traction.


What Does Cervical Traction Do?

Cervical traction can be used for a variety of purposes.

  • It can be used to help decrease compressive forces in the neck, which can help take pressure off of the discs that reside between the vertebrae (spinal bones) in the neck.
  • It can also open up the spaces where nerves exit the spinal canal, which can help relieve pressure off of a compressed nerve.
  • Traction can also help stretch the muscles and joint structures around the neck.

Common diagnoses that may benefit from cervical traction include, but are not limited to:

  • Herniated or bulging discs in the neck
  • Neck strains1
  • Neck arthritis
  • Cervical muscle spasms
  • Radiculopathy2

If you have any of these conditions or symptoms, check in with your healthcare provider and visit your PT to see if cervical traction is right for you. Your PT can show you what to do (and what to avoid) to properly manage your neck pain.


Does Neck Traction Really Work?

When considering any medical treatment, in the PT clinic or elsewhere, it helps to understand what research is available for the treatment and how it may help your condition. So what does the research show for cervical traction?

A 2017 meta-analysis published in the journal Spine examined seven different cervical traction studies. The researchers concluded that neck traction can possibly offer short-term neck pain relief. The research is inconclusive when determining if traction offers long-term relief, and more studies need to be done on cervical traction to determine this.


When considering cervical traction for your neck pain, it's important to speak with your PT to be sure it is right for you and to have realistic expectations for the treatment.


How is Cervical Traction Applied?

Cervical traction can be applied in many different ways. Your PT can help you determine the best one.

    • Manual Cervical Traction: This type of traction is performed by your physical therapist, who holds your neck and head in his hands and then gently provides a traction, or pulling, force to your neck. Rhythmic periods of pulling and resting are usually applied, with each position being held for up to 10 seconds.
    • Mechanical Cervical Traction: Mechanical traction for your neck involves using a harness that attaches to your head and neck while you're lying down on your back. The harness is attached to a machine that can provide a traction force, and the machine has a control panel so that your physical therapist can change the amount of force applied to your neck.
    • Over-the-Door Traction: This type of traction can be used at home and involves strapping a harness to your head and neck while you're sitting in a chair. The harness is attached to a rope that's strung through a pulley system over your door, and traction force is applied using weights, a sandbag, or a water bag that's attached to the opposite end of the rope.


The pulling force involved will generally change depending on the patient's position, with less force being used in the supine position since you don't have to overcome the force of gravity. In this position, eight to 10 pounds is often recommended.


The force should be held for 10 to 20 seconds, and then slowly released. Increased pulling forces up to 40 to 50 pounds can be used, and rhythmic pulling and releasing should be continued for 10 to 20 minutes.


Traction can be applied several times throughout the day. Be sure to work closely with your physical therapist to help decide on the best treatment parameters for your specific condition.

What to Know About Neck Traction

The term traction can mean different things in health care, but it generally refers to using a pulling force to treat joint, bone, or muscle problems. This is often used in physical therapy or orthopedics to treat:

  • Long-lasting muscle spasms
  • Dislocation
  • Fractures 
  • Deformities 

Traction is usually used on the neck, spine, arms, legs, and pelvis to help with any muscle, joint, or bone problems. 

The concept of traction uses force and counterforce to pull in the opposite directions. This usually involves pulling one way and adjusting a bed or using your body weight as a counterweight in the other direction.

This is often used for broken limbs. You might have seen someone with their leg wrapped, attached to a pulley system with weights, and hanging in midair. The pulley helps pull in one direction and your body weight pulls in the opposite. This is often done to help align bones for proper healing. 

Neck traction, or cervical traction, also uses pulling force on the neck. These are usually stretches or other exercises that are used to relieve neck pain. These can sometimes involve devices that you can use at home. 

Manual cervical traction. This is done with your therapist using their hands to gently pull your head and neck away from your body. They hold your head for 10 seconds and then gently release. They might do it several times at different angles. 

This type of traction is used: 

  • To diagnose your neck condition
  • During massage or physical therapy to gently stretch muscles
  • During chiropractic adjustment to gently stretch the neck
  • To relieve pain

Mechanical cervical traction. In this kind of traction, a harness is attached to your head while you lay down. Your therapist attaches the harness to a machine and uses traction to stretch your head and neck away from your body.

This kind of traction can also involve a Halo device or Gardner-Wells tongs, which use a ring pinned to the skull. These can be attached to a vest for long-term wear to help stabilize the neck, or attached to a harness. A machine or a weight is then applied to the Halo to provide the pull.

 

Benefits of Neck Traction

Neck traction is used in physical therapy settings, the emergency room, and sometimes at home. It is considered a non-invasive way to stabilize fractures or dislocations in the neck and spine. It’s also used for:

  • Arthritis
  • Pinched nerves
  • Cervical disc disease
  • Misalignment of cervical bones
  • Spondylosis, or spinal degenerative disc disease
  • Stenosis, or narrowing of the cervical space
  • Scoliosis‌

Neck traction has specific benefits, including:

  • Easing muscle spasm
  • Stopping muscles from shortening and contracting
  • Easing pressure
  • Helping to bring back blood flow and nerve function
  • Keeping your neck stable 
  • Correcting deformities
  • Resting an injury
  • Relieving pain

People who have neck problems can sometimes have numbness and tingling in the arms and legs and a lot of pain, among other symptoms. It’s not fully clear how neck traction helps, but it’s thought that being in traction can take off some of the pressure on the nerve, and help muscles relax, which brings relief.

Sometimes traction is used on and off with periods of rest. This might bring more blood flow to your nerves. This kind of traction is used mostly for degenerative disc disease and when your neck doesn’t move well.

Sustained traction uses weights or force for longer periods of time, usually up to 1 hour. This is used mostly for muscle pain and herniated discs.

Problems from neck traction are rare. People who have certain health conditions probably shouldn’t use this therapy. These include:

  • Torticollis
  • Aortic aneurysm
  • Osteoporosis
  • Spinal cord tumor
  • Major anxiety
  • Untreated high blood pressure
  • Recent neck injury or surgery
  • Chronic cervical disc degeneration
  • Pregnancy 

Your physical therapist or doctor will decide if you should use neck traction and if an at-home traction device is a good idea.

If you have any of the following symptoms during neck traction, you should stop immediately and be assessed by your doctor:

  • Headache
  • Nerve pain in your extremities
  • Pain suddenly goes away
  • Neurological symptoms
    • Muscle weakness
    • Numbness
    • Fainting
    • Confusion
    • Vision loss 
    • Tremors
    • Seizures 

Neck traction is one way to help with neck pain and other problems. Your muscles and tissues and spine are sensitive to damage, so it’s best to get advice from your doctor first.



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 Traction Unit, Cervical Traction, Traction Machine, acco Traction Unit(LCD Based), TR01, AMP-03TR01, Physiotherapy Machines


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