Why We Don’t Routinely Use Cervical Traction for Herniated Discs
If you’ve been diagnosed with a cervical disc herniation, there’s a good chance someone has mentioned traction as a treatment option. It’s often marketed as a way to “decompress” the spine and take pressure off the nerve.
So why don’t we routinely use cervical traction for disc injuries in our office?
Because most disc injuries are more complex than simple compression — and our goal is long-term correction, not temporary relief.
A Herniated Disc Isn’t Just a “Pressure” Problem
When a cervical disc is injured, several things are typically happening at once:
Inflammation around the nerve root
Chemical irritation from disc material
Micro-tearing of annular fibers
Joint restriction at adjacent segments
Protective muscle guarding
Poor deep cervical stabilizer activation
Traction primarily addresses mechanical compression. But compression is only one piece of the puzzle.
If we only pull on the neck without addressing inflammation, motor control, and joint mechanics, we’re not truly correcting the underlying dysfunction.
Why Traction Isn’t Our First-Line Approach
In some cases, cervical traction can:
Increase nerve irritation
Aggravate annular tears
Trigger protective muscle spasm
Provide short-term relief without long-term stability
Temporary symptom reduction is not the same thing as healing.
Our responsibility is to choose interventions that move you toward lasting recovery — not just something that feels good for a few hours.
What We Focus On Instead
At our clinic, treatment for cervical disc injuries focuses on:
1. Reducing Inflammation & Neural Irritation
Targeted soft tissue work, specific spinal adjustments (when appropriate), and movement strategies help calm the irritated tissue rather than stress it.
2. Restoring Proper Segmental Motion
Disc injuries often create compensation above and below the injured segment. Restoring controlled mobility prevents overload at one level.
3. Activating Deep Cervical Stabilizers
Most people with chronic neck pain have poor endurance in the deep neck flexors. If stability isn’t rebuilt, the disc continues to be stressed.
4. Correcting Posture & Load Tolerance
Forward head posture, prolonged desk work, and phone use repeatedly stress cervical discs. We address the cause — not just the symptoms.
5. Building Long-Term Resilience
Rehabilitation is progressive. The goal is to make your spine stronger and more adaptable, not dependent on passive treatments.
Is Traction Ever Used?
Traction isn’t “bad.” It’s just not universally appropriate.
There are select cases where short-term traction may be indicated — but it is never our primary solution, and it is always carefully screened for safety.
Every patient is evaluated individually. No cookie-cutter protocols.
The Bigger Goal: Long-Term Function
Our philosophy is simple:
Relief is important.
But resilience is better.
We want you sleeping comfortably, working without flare-ups, lifting your kids, training, traveling, and living without fear of your neck “going out.”
If you’re dealing with neck pain, radiating arm symptoms, or have been told you have a disc herniation, we’d be happy to evaluate your case and build a personalized plan.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re in Southern Illinois and struggling with neck pain:
Schedule your consultation today.
We’ll perform a detailed exam, explain your condition clearly, and create a plan focused on long-term results.
👉 Easily book online at www.southernspineandrehab.com
📍 Serving Marion and surrounding Southern Illinois communities
Your spine deserves more than temporary relief. Let’s fix the problem the right way.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the professional opinion and clinical experience of the providers at Southern Spine and Rehab and should not be interpreted as a substitute for individualized evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every patient and condition is unique. Treatment decisions — including whether or not to utilize interventions such as cervical traction — are made on a case-by-case basis following a comprehensive history and physical examination.
Reading this content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. If you are experiencing neck pain, arm pain, numbness, weakness, or other concerning symptoms, you should seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider.
If you are located in Southern Illinois and would like a personalized assessment, we are happy to help determine the most appropriate course of care for your specific condition.