Cervical Traction for Migraine Relief: Can Neck Decompression Help?
Head pain can be uncomfortable even during everyday tasks. You may also need to find a peaceful environment. Take a rest and wait for the pain to subside. Sometimes you experience a sore or stiff neck along with a headache, leading you to ponder whether stretching your neck might ease the pain.
That's one reason folks consider cervical traction. The idea of a neck stretcher is to gently support the stretch and possibly help with some neck issues. The question is, can cervical traction help your migraine? The answer is it depends on the cause of your headaches. Let's see what cervical traction can do and what you should know.
What Is Cervical Traction?
Cervical traction refers to gently stretching your neck to reduce pressure on certain areas around the neck joints. It may be used to treat specific neck conditions and is sometimes advised by a healthcare provider.
A neck decompression device is meant to do this. Some devices use air to inflate slightly and provide a stretching sensation while others do not. The goal is to support your neck without holding it in an awkward position.
However, traction isn't right for everyone. Neck pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, and stretching won't necessarily relieve it. You want to make sure you understand the source of your pain and whether something like a TENS device is suitable for you.
Can Cervical Traction Help With Migraines?
You may experience neck pain along with migraines. The muscles around your shoulders might tighten, or you may feel soreness at the base of your skull as a warning sign of a migraine.
Having a sore neck, of course, does not mean you are sure to get a migraine. Neck pain is one of the possible symptoms of a migraine and not necessarily the cause of the migraine. In that case stretching your neck may not really prevent the attack.
There is also one more condition called a cervicogenic headache. This headache begins with an issue related to the neck. The pain radiates from the back of the head to the forehead and particular head movements aggravate it.
The two conditions can seem quite similar, so it can be difficult to determine which you are suffering from without the help of a clinician. A clinician will help you determine the most likely problem and whether treatment focused on the neck might be effective.
Migraine vs. Cervicogenic Headache
Migraine is a neurological disease that can cause pain in your head in addition to nausea and light or sound sensitivity. Some people also see visual disturbances. Neck stiffness may happen during an attack, but it may not be the original trigger.
A cervicogenic headache involves a neck issue. The headache pain might start at the back of your head and radiate to one side of your head. Turning your neck might also influence the headache sensation.
What is the significance of this difference? The treatment depends on the origin of the pain. If you have chronic headaches and neck pain, go get evaluated instead of coming to the conclusion that both can be corrected with a cervical neck traction device.
When Might Neck Decompression Help?
If you have specific neck conditions, a provider may recommend traction as part of your treatment, which could also include physical therapy or certain exercises depending on your symptoms.
If head pain is at the top of your list, seek out migraine-specific treatment rather than just a neck stretcher. Your provider can help you understand what options make sense.
A traction device for neck pain may be suitable for your condition if recommended by your doctor. But more stretching isn't always better. You want something that does what is needed without worsening the pain.
Why Consider the MediSupplis Air Relief Neck Stretcher?
If you've been recommended a gentle traction device for a neck condition, the MediSupplis Air Relief Neck Stretcher is another option to consider. This inflatable device offers adjustable support for the neck.
The product includes a hand pump that controls the air level as well as Velcro straps to help secure the fit. This allows for pneumatic adjustment rather than being locked into a standard level of inflation.
An inflatable neck stretcher could be easy to carry around for anyone hoping for support with certain types of neck stiffness. Its purpose does not, however, include treating migraines and its effectiveness and likelihood of working for you will depend on your symptoms and the opinion of a doctor.
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Is At-Home Cervical Traction Right for You?
Clearly you can see why a person may opt for a home alternative. It's a straightforward item. The equipment doesn't use up a lot of room, and a portable model is easier to put away when not in use.
This Air Relief Neck Stretcher by MediSupplis is lightweight. Adjustable inflation and straps make the stretcher an easy solution for anyone who has been instructed to use mild traction.
Still a portable cervical traction device isn't suitable for everyone. If you experience chronic migraines, recurring headaches or neck pain that won't go away, it's best to talk to a doctor before using it.
Final Thoughts
Cervical traction may help with certain neck conditions, but it isn't a proven treatment for migraine itself. Neck pain can be part of a migraine attack, so stretching your neck won't necessarily address the reason you're having headaches.
If you are looking at the MediSupplis Neck Stretcher, check whether traction is right for you first. Follow the product instructions and any expert advice you receive. Most of all, do not use a neck stretcher as a replacement for proper care for migraines.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can cervical traction stop a migraine?
There isn't enough evidence to say that cervical traction can stop a migraine. It may help with certain neck conditions but migraines need appropriate treatment.
2. Does neck pain mean my migraine comes from my neck?
No. Neck pain can be part of a migraine attack. A healthcare professional can help determine whether a separate neck problem is also involved.
3. What's the difference between migraine and a cervicogenic headache?
A migraine is a neurological condition, while a cervicogenic headache starts from a problem involving the neck. The symptoms can overlap.
4. Can a neck decompression device help with stiffness?
Traction may help some people with certain neck conditions. It depends on the cause of the stiffness and whether traction is suitable.
5. Does the MediSupplis Air Relief Neck Stretcher treat migraines?
It's designed to provide adjustable neck support. It shouldn't be considered a proven migraine treatment or a replacement for medical care.
6. Can I use a neck stretcher during a migraine?
Don't assume it will help or that it's suitable during an attack. Ask a healthcare professional and stop if your symptoms get worse.
7. Is a cervical traction device suitable for everyone?
No. Some medical conditions, previous neck surgery or weakened bones can make traction unsuitable. Get professional advice before use.
8. How long should I use a neck traction device?
There's no single session length that's right for everyone. Follow the product instructions and any guidance from your healthcare professional.
9. What should I do if my headache gets worse while using a device?
Stop using it and contact a healthcare professional. Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache or symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or difficulty speaking.
10. What's the best neck stretcher for migraine-related neck pain?
There isn't one best neck stretcher for everyone. First find out what's causing your symptoms and whether traction is appropriate. Then consider fit comfort and the product instructions when choosing a device.