Stretching the spine (traction) is a simple but effective method of reducing pressure on the vertebrae. The goal of stretching in orthopedics is to restore the functionality and mobility of the vertebrae, as well as the intervertebral space. Without a healthy spine, the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal and musculoskeletal systems is impossible. Stretching the spine helps prevent the abrasion of cartilage and severe pain, which will inevitably begin sooner or later in the presence of diseases of the spinal column. Traction also avoids premature development of hernias.
What is traction
With age, compression of the vertebrae and subsequent abrasion of the cartilage tissue becomes more pronounced. Alas, the pathology is "getting younger": due to a sedentary, sedentary lifestyle, the process can affect even adolescents. This increases the risk of developing neurological diseases at a young age. Traction of the spine allows you to mechanically reduce the degree of compression, in the literal sense of the word moves the vertebrae apart, as a result of which the bone tube is stretched and the destruction of the cartilage tissue is prevented.
Patients who already have problems with the musculoskeletal and musculoskeletal systems describe the amazing results of spinal stretching. After the first procedure, pain decreases, the body becomes more flexible, mobile, muscle cramps and clamps disappear.
Stretching the spine at home is possible. It is not necessary to visit an orthopedist or chiropractor daily to achieve a good result. True, you will have to be patient, as home stretching methods are often somewhat less effective than classic orthopedic ones. Self-medication can lead to injuries and even worsen the condition of the intervertebral cartilaginous tissue, therefore, before choosing a particular method of stretching, 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 cartilaginous tissue is that it is suitable for patients with almost any pathology of bone structures. The correct execution of the procedure (taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient) positively affects the state of the weakened support column. Not only the spine is recovering, but also the nervous system: after all, with diseases of the spine, nerves and arteries are often compressed, which leads to impaired vision, hearing, dizziness, and impaired functioning of internal organs.
Another significant advantage of the method is that spinal stretching is allowed for patients in old age. And children in general are often prescribed gentle methods of stretching (for example, hanging on the horizontal bar) - this strengthens the muscles and helps the child grow tall and stately.
In parallel with stretching, exercise therapy exercises should be performed - this will help strengthen the muscles of the back. As a result of an integrated approach, the patient can achieve long-term remission and forget about pains and problems with the intervertebral cartilage tissue for a long time.
Indications for traction
Stretching the spine facilitates the condition of patients with the following pathologies:
- some varieties of herniated intervertebral discs;
- scoliosis;
- spondylosis;
- cracks in the fibrous ring;
- degenerative disorders in the intervertebral discs;
- ankylosing spondylitis in the initial stages of development;
- radiculo-ischemic syndrome;
- protrusion of the intervertebral disc;
- disk compression changes;
- osteochondrosis in any part of the spinal column;
- arthrosis of the spine.
Traction result
After a course of procedures, the following therapeutic effect is observed:
- increased intervertebral distance;
- decrease in pressure on the cartilage between the vertebrae;
- normalization of blood circulation;
- reduction in the degree of compression of the nerve roots (this is especially true for patients with osteophytes);
- sprains and muscles of the paravertebral sections;
- extension of displaced vertebral bodies when pulling the longitudinal posterior ligament of the support column;
- a decrease in the severity of pain in diseases of the spine;
- decrease in tension of spasmodic muscles along the spine.
Contraindications to 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 load 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 bleeding.
- Foraminal or sequestered hernia.
- The presence of acute psychotic conditions.
- Impaired bone density.
The procedure for stretching the spine in children is possible only with an experienced orthopedist, with the most gentle and safe methods. If the patient worsened during the procedure, it is better to abandon its further implementation.
Types of spinal stretching
If the patient plans to carry out the procedure in a hospital, then a specific method should be discussed with a 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. The patient's body is fixed on a special shield, which is located in water of a comfortable temperature. Then, using special devices, the spine is subjected to soft, smooth stretching. The procedure does not cause pain. Moreover, patient reviews indicate that this is a very pleasant procedure.
- Hardware pulling. It is carried out using a special device for stretching the spine. At first glance, it looks pretty intimidating, but with the right procedure, the patient does not experience pain.
- Dry stretch. It consists in the fact that under the supervision of medical personnel, the patient is hung on a special bar, and a load is attached to his legs (its weight varies depending on the condition and endurance of the person).
How to prepare for the procedure
As a rule, before the course of procedures, the doctor prescribes additional studies that will help to clarify the diagnosis.
Before traction, one should not eat tightly. Do not drink alcohol the day before. 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 methods of traction at home:
- use of the Evminov simulator;
- the use of loops (straps) for hanging;
- stretching the spine on the horizontal bar.
Evminov stretcher simulator
The simulator is a board to which a crossbar is attached at the top. The upper part of the simulator is attached to the hook, which is fixed in the wall. The patient does gymnastics, grasping this bar. Thus, the patient can control the degree of stretching.
This technique is traumatic for some pathologies, therefore, before conducting an independent traction, you should consult an orthopedist.
Using stretch loops
Loops (straps) for stretching the spine on the bar - an effective way to improve the condition of the musculoskeletal system.
The Glisson 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.
Orthopedic stores also sell double loops, the use of which involves slipping them in the shoulders. The use of such straps allows you to stretch the chest and lumbar spine.
Horizontal bar: pros and cons for the spine
Vis on the horizontal bar is the easiest and cheapest way to stretch your spine. Some people suspend a load from their legs (for example, they attach disks to the bar) - this way the method becomes even more effective.
Hang on the horizontal bar until your hands are tired. The head cannot be thrown back. If physical training allows, then during the hang you can perform various kinds of exercises, for example, lifting straight legs parallel to the floor.
Some people install a horizontal bar at home in the doorway. This allows you to practice regularly, and not just in the warm season on the street. If pain occurs in the back or neck during the execution of the vis, it is better to abandon this method of stretching the spine.