Abstract:

BACKGROUND: In clinic, cervical mechanical traction is considered to be one of the main therapeutic methods for cervical syndrome patients, especially for that with symptoms of nerve root or vertebral artery compression.
OBJECTIVE: To summarize the research progress of cervical mechanical traction technique in China.
METHODS: Databases of CNKI and Medline was retrieved with key words of cervical mechanical traction both in Chinese and English to search literatures published between January 2000 and January 2009. In addition, related monograph was manual searched. Studies concerning action mechanism, three essential factors, as well as the modifying of cervical mechanical traction technique were included in this analysis.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Cervical mechanical traction is a physical therapy technique which put stress on cervical vertebra that is made extension by means of machine, aiming to detach articular facet, extension soft tissue, and improve biomechanics. Different patients have different destination, and the traction should be altered. The best combination of weight, time, posture, mode, frequency using in some patient with his trouble is most important. Based on vertebral column anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, to understand action mechanism, handling indication, contraindication, adverse reaction, announcements and practical limitations, being familiar with operating sequence, are all involved in the mechanical traction therapy. Along with the advancement of research and technique, there will be better development in normalization and individualization of cervical mechanical traction.