Effects of different cervical traction weights on neck pain and mobility.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effects of 3 different traction weights on neck pain and range of motion/mobility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety subjects, 42 men and 48 women, with neck pain due to cervical spondylosis participated in the study. They were assigned into three groups, each of which was subjected to a different cervical traction(CT) weight namely: group A = 7.5% total body weight(TBW), group B = 10%TBW, and group C =15%TBW CT respectively. Pain intensity and neck mobility, pre-treatment and post-treatment, were assessed using visual analogue scale(VAS) and universal goniometer respectively.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference(p < 0.05) pre-treatment, but existed post-treatment (p < 0.05) between the groups for neck pain and mobility. Nineteen subjects had reactions due to the CT application: 3,5 and 11 in groups A,B and C respectively. The least reactions were recorded with the use of 7.5% TBW traction and the highest with the 15% TBW traction. The 10%TBW CT recorded the most significant pain relief and neck flexibility/mobility compared with the 7.5% TBW and 15% TBW CT therapy.

CONCLUSION

This study established the 10% TBW CT as the ideal weight with minimal side effects and with highest therapeutic efficacy. Therefore clinicians could adopt this weight in managing neck disorders requiring traction.