Is Cervical Traction Evidence Based?

The research studies collectively support the use of cervical traction as an effective intervention for neck pain, particularly when combined with exercises and manual therapy.

• Raney et al. (2009) developed a clinical prediction rule to identify patients with neck pain and radiculopathy who would benefit from cervical traction and exercise, showing positive outcomes when both are applied together.
• Joghataei et al. (2004) compared intermittent cervical traction with exercise therapy and found that traction significantly reduces chronic neck pain when part of a broader treatment plan.
• Cleland et al. (2005) demonstrated short-term improvements in neck and arm pain when cervical traction is combined with thoracic thrust manipulation.
• Kumar et al. (2014) reviewed multiple studies, concluding that cervical traction is particularly beneficial for cases involving nerve compression.
• Young et al. (2009) compared cervical traction with a placebo in patients with cervical radiculopathy and found traction to offer greater relief.

Overall, these studies underscore the efficacy of cervical traction, especially in treating conditions with nerve-related symptoms.

Check Out our YouTube video on this topic: Neck Traction Techniques