From the Guidelines
Home traction devices are not effective for cervical spinal stenosis, and their use is not recommended due to lack of evidence supporting their benefits. The most recent and highest quality study available, 1, discusses the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain, but also touches on the topic of spinal stenosis and the effectiveness of various treatments, including traction. According to this study, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that traction is effective in patients with spinal stenosis or radicular pain.
In fact, the study mentions that continuous or intermittent traction has not been shown to be effective in patients with sciatica, and few trials have evaluated the effectiveness of treatments specifically in patients with radicular pain or symptoms of spinal stenosis. This lack of evidence, combined with the potential risks of improper use, makes it essential to exercise caution when considering home traction devices for cervical spinal stenosis.
Instead of relying on home traction devices, patients with cervical spinal stenosis should focus on evidence-based treatments, such as physical therapy, proper posture training, and potentially anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen. These treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, while also addressing the underlying structural issues causing stenosis. It is crucial for patients to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment program to determine the best course of action for their specific condition.
From the Research
Effectiveness of Home Traction Devices for Cervical Spinal Stenosis
- The effectiveness of home traction devices for cervical spinal stenosis is supported by some studies, which suggest that cervical traction can provide symptomatic relief for patients with mild to moderately severe cervical spondylosis syndromes 2.
- A retrospective study found that 81% of patients with mild to moderately severe cervical spondylosis syndromes improved with the use of a brief (3-5 min), over-the-door home cervical traction modality 2.
- Another study reported that cervical traction, in conjunction with a home exercise program, was effective in managing a patient with a cervical disc herniation 3.
- However, the majority of patients with spinal stenosis, including cervical stenosis, respond to nonoperative management, which may include rest, avoiding maneuvers that reproduce pain, and physical therapy 4.
- A case series found that manual physical therapy, cervical traction, and strengthening exercises were effective in improving pain and function in patients with cervical radiculopathy, with 91% of patients demonstrating clinically meaningful improvement 5.
Key Findings
- Cervical traction can provide symptomatic relief for patients with mild to moderately severe cervical spondylosis syndromes 2.
- Home traction devices, such as over-the-door cervical traction, can be an effective and convenient treatment option for patients with cervical spinal stenosis 2, 3.
- Nonoperative management, including physical therapy and home exercise programs, is often effective in managing spinal stenosis, including cervical stenosis 4, 6.
- Manual physical therapy, cervical traction, and strengthening exercises can be an effective treatment approach for patients with cervical radiculopathy 5.