Spine stretching (traction) is a simple but effective method of reducing pressure on the vertebrae. The purpose of stretching in orthopedics is to restore the functionality and mobility of the vertebrae, as well as the intervertebral space. Without a he althy spine, the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal and musculoskeletal systems is impossible. Stretching the spine helps prevent abrasion of cartilage and the appearance of severe pain, which will inevitably begin sooner or later in the presence of diseases of the spinal column. Traction also prevents premature hernias.
What is traction
With age, compression of the vertebrae and subsequent abrasion of cartilage becomes more pronounced. Alas, the pathology is "getting younger": due to a sedentary, sedentary lifestyle, the process can even affect adolescents. This increases the risk of developing neurological diseases already at a young age. Traction of the spine allows mechanical reductionthe degree of compression, in the truest sense of the word, moves the vertebrae apart, as a result of which the bone tube is stretched and the destruction of cartilage is prevented.
Patients who already have musculoskeletal and musculoskeletal problems report amazing results from spinal stretching. Already after the first procedure, pain decreases, the body becomes more flexible, mobile, muscle spasms and clamps disappear.
Spine stretching at home is possible. It is not at all necessary to visit an orthopedist or chiropractor every day to achieve a good result. True, you will have to be patient, since home stretching methods are often somewhat less effective than classic orthopedic ones. Self-treatment can lead to injury and even worsen the condition of the intervertebral cartilage tissue, so before choosing one or another stretching method, you should consult an orthopedist or surgeon about the effectiveness of the chosen method.
Benefits of the procedure
The advantage of stretching the spine (traction) over other methods to improve the condition of the intervertebral cartilage tissue is that it is suitable for patients with almost any pathology of bone structures. Correct execution of the procedure (taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient) has a positive effect on the condition of the weakened support column. Not only the spine is healed, but also the nervous system: after all, in diseases of the spine, nerves and arteries are very often pinched, which leads todeterioration of vision, hearing, dizziness, disruption of internal organs.
Also a significant advantage of the method is that stretching of the spine is allowed for patients in old age. And children in general are often prescribed gentle stretching methods (for example, hanging on the horizontal bar) - this strengthens the muscles and helps the child grow up tall and stately.
In parallel with stretching, physical therapy exercises should be performed - this will help strengthen the back muscles. As a result of an integrated approach, the patient can achieve a long-term remission and forget about pain and problems with the intervertebral cartilage tissue for a long time.
Indications for traction
Spine stretching relieves the condition of patients with the following pathologies:
- some types of herniated discs;
- scoliosis;
- spondylosis;
- annulus fissures;
- degenerative disorders in intervertebral discs;
- ankylosing spondylitis in the initial stages of development;
- radiculo-ischemic syndrome;
- protrusion of intervertebral discs;
- compression disc changes;
- osteochondrosis in any part of the spinal column;
- arthrosis of the spine.
Result of traction
After a course of procedures, the following therapeutic effect is observed:
- increase in intervertebral distance;
- reducing pressure on cartilage betweenvertebrae;
- normalization of blood circulation;
- reducing the degree of compression of the nerve roots (this is especially true for patients with osteophytes);
- stretching of ligaments and muscles of paravertebral areas;
- protrusion of displaced vertebral bodies under tension of the longitudinal posterior ligament of the supporting column;
- reducing the severity of pain in diseases of the spine;
- reducing the tension of spasmodic muscles along the spine.
Contraindications for the procedure
As with any orthopedic procedure, traction has some contraindications:
- It is forbidden to perform the procedure during an exacerbation of chronic diseases of internal organs - this is an extra burden on the body.
- The period of pregnancy is also a contraindication to skeletal traction, any kind of manual therapy and physiotherapy;
- Malignant tumor process.
- Tendency to bleed.
- Foraminal or sequestered hernia.
- Presence of acute psychotic conditions.
- Impaired bone density.
The procedure for stretching the spine in children can only be done by an experienced orthopedist, and with the most gentle and safe methods. If during the procedure the patient's condition worsened, then it is better to abandon its further conduct.
Varieties of stretchingspine
If the patient plans to have the procedure in a hospital, then the specific method should be discussed with the vertebrologist or orthopedist. Depending on the individual characteristics of the patient, one of the following stretching methods can be selected:
- Water traction. It is useful not only for the spine, but also for the whole organism as a whole (in particular, for the cardiovascular system). The procedure can be carried out in one of two modes: with a continuous load and with a variable one. The patient's body is fixed on a special shield, which is located in water at a comfortable temperature. Then, with the help of special devices, the spine is subjected to soft, smooth stretching. The procedure does not cause pain. What's more, patient reviews indicate that this is a very pleasant procedure.
- Hardware pull. It is carried out using a special device for stretching the spine. At first glance, it looks quite intimidating, but with the correct procedure, the patient does not experience pain.
- Dry traction. It consists in the fact that, under the supervision of medical personnel, the patient is suspended on a special crossbar, and a load is attached to the legs (its weight varies depending on the condition and endurance of the person).
How to prepare for the procedure
As a rule, before a course of procedures, the doctor prescribes additional studies that will help clarify the diagnosis.
Don't eat heavily before traction. The day before it is impossibleconsume alcoholic beverages. When performing the procedure on an empty stomach, the patient may feel discomfort. It is optimal to take a light protein breakfast, drink sweet tea.
Traction methods at home
At home, you can also effectively stretch the spine. The main thing is to listen to your feelings. There should be no pain, discomfort.
The most effective home traction methods:
- using the Evminov simulator;
- using loops (straps) for hanging;
- stretching the spine on the horizontal bar.
Evminov's stretching machine
The simulator is a board to which a crossbar is attached at the top. The upper part of the simulator is attached to a hook, which is fixed in the wall. The patient does gymnastics, grasping this crossbar. Thus, the patient can control the degree of stretching.
This technique is traumatic in some pathologies, so you should consult with an orthopedist before performing traction yourself.
Using stretch loops
Loops (straps) for stretching the spine on the crossbar - an effective way to improve the condition of the musculoskeletal system.
Glisson's loop is used for traction of the cervical spine. The device consists of two strong mounts: for the chin and for the back of the head.
In orthopedic stores, there are also double loops for sale, the use of which involves threading the shoulders through them. The use of suchstraps allow you to stretch the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Horizontal bar: pros and cons for the spine
Hanging from the horizontal bar is the easiest and cheapest way to stretch your spine. Some people hang weights from their legs (for example, tie discs from a barbell) - this makes the method even more effective.
You should hang on the horizontal bar until your hands get tired. You can't tilt your head back. If physical fitness allows, then during the hang, you can perform various exercises, for example, lifting straight legs parallel to the floor.
Some people install a horizontal bar at home, in a doorway. This allows you to practice regularly, and not only in the warm season on the street. If during the execution of the hang there is pain in the back or neck, then it is better to abandon this method of stretching the spine.
