Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness CoachUpdated on Feb 14, 2024
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processIf you have a desk job, a kid, a pet, a college project at hand, or even just a smartphone, chances are that your neck and spine have suffered a lot. Such lifestyle changes “distort our posture, cause our neck to compress and in turn puts pressure on the (cervical) discs. They contribute to pinched nerves and tight muscles”, says chiropractor Dr. Adam J. Story. But even after experiencing such discomfort on an almost regular basis, most of us quietly endure the pain and do nothing about it! For those who relate to this, here’s a revelation — the best cervical traction devices can significantly reduce such aches through simple at-home usage!
Cervical traction devices consist of manual, mechanical, and over-the-door mechanisms commonly used to relieve a number of spinal problems such as stiffness, pinched nerves, herniated discs, etc. (1) (2). Some of these devices consist of shiatsu massage nodes and heating systems to improve blood circulation in the joints and relax our muscles, so you feel your best. However, investing in a poorly-functioning device is risky business as it can likely worsen your spinal health. So, to help you get your hands on the right product, we have listed our favorite products picks below, thereby saving you the grunt work. Keep scrolling to learn more!
Our top picks
11 Best Cervical Traction Devices
The V-shaped curvature of this home next traction device by Restcloud holds your spine comfortably while maintaining balance and stability on both ends. It is made with a flexible, synthetic material and filled with memory foam that provides pillow-like comfort while staying firm, so you can dig into it without falling hard on your head! With this device, you can alternate between the concave and convex ends to get a gentle or strong traction respectively, depending on how severe the pain is.
Pros
- 6 massage nodes
- Travel-friendly
- Improves range of motion
- Decompresses quickly
- Fits anatomically
- Reduces numbness in arms
- Advanced 3-way stretch
Cons
- Too high for short necks
2
Best Whiplash Remedy
Branfit Cervical Neck Brace
For those who don’t have the time to lie down for neck stretches, this inflatable neck traction device by Branfit comes in handy. You can wear it while working on a desk or inclining on a couch, and trust it to stabilize neck and head injuries. This decompression neck brace also restores the flexibility in your neck joint and relieves discomfort caused by stiffness. Besides, it won’t take you long to get used to this 3-tiered pillow-like structure around your neck. For the best results, wear the brace twice a day for about 15 minutes.
Pros
- Easy to inflate
- Remedy for whiplash
- Relaxes overworked muscles
- Provides chin support
- Prevents and relieves headaches
- Efficient velcro-strap closure
Cons
- Not durable
- Leaks air
3
Best Therapeutic Pillowcase
ZAMAT Neck Stretcher Chiropractic Pillow
What makes this neck stretcher device special is that it comes with a magnetic therapy pillowcase — effective for promoting blood circulation and giving a cooling sensation to your overworked spine. Moreover, made with polyurethane foam, the product doesn’t lose shape and allows you to press your neck firmly if needed. Another feature we love is that its shiatsu massage nodes provide acupressure therapy to your spine and help with cervical alignment. All in all, it is the holy grail home traction device to alleviate fatigue after a long day at work!
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Odorless
- Sweat-resistant pillowcase
- Stretches upwards and sideways
- Reduces shoulder strains
- Helps with text neck
- Washable pillow
Cons
- Not effective for severe stiffness
4
Best Travel-friendly Pick
S Inflatable Neck Support Brace
This inflatable cervical traction device is incredibly useful for correcting spine alignment at home. It is lightweight and anatomically designed, so you don’t feel any weight on your shoulders when using the device. And, it is made with a soft and breathable fabric to keep your neck comforted while treating stiffness and relieving pinched nerves. Furthermore, what we love about this product is that it provides instant relief, and shows significant improvement in your spinal health in just a week of using it.
Pros
- Elevates the jaw
- Chiropractor-recommended
- Travel-friendly
- Adjustable support
- Helps with herniated discs
- Prevents headaches
Cons
- Leaks air
- Difficult to pump
5
Best for Instant Pain Relief
NeckFix Cervical Neck Traction Device
Say goodbye to spasmodic headaches and dizziness with this inflatable brace that relieves pinched nerves around your neck region through cervical traction at home. The anatomical contours on this alignment tool target stiffness around the neck and help restore its natural curve. Moreover, it promotes the passage of nutrition, oxygen, and blood flow between your joints, so your body parts feel healthy and rejuvenated. To reap its benefits, you can use this device while resting or working at a desk.
Pros
- Pocket-friendly
- Eases spinal fatigue
- Easy to inflate
- Instant pain relief
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Velcro placement irritates the skin
- Unhelpful instruction manual
6
Best for Text Neck
RUNZI Inflatable Neck Stretcher
As this cervical traction pillow is adjustable, you can easily regulate how much you want to inflate it for a relaxing spine stretch to decompress your neck and shoulders. The device helps increase blood circulation and oxygen flow in the neck region, which miraculously relieves several minor pains that you’ve been enduring quietly. Aside from that, the suede texture of the pillow feels soft and comfortable against your skin, and you won’t feel constantly bothered by it around your neck.
Pros
- Relieves severe joint pains
- Lightweight and portable
- Doesn’t cause your face to swell
- Easy on the shoulders
- Alleviates pinched nerves
Cons
- Requires too much pumping
- Less helpful with alignment
7
Best for Blood Circulation
Cozyhealth Heated Neck Stretcher
Those suffering from migraines and frequent headaches must definitely try out this cervical traction device at home to relieve tension from their nerves. The device has an anatomical structure with an inclined headrest that improves the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the head. This also counters the physical impact of bowing the head for too long and relieves fatigue in the region. And, the advanced graphene heating technology stimulates stiff muscle ligaments and awakens your C-spine, so you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Pros
- Helps with text neck
- Restores neck curvature
- Flexible material
- Feels therapeutic
- Lightweight and portable
- Relaxes sore muscles
- Provides concave + convex traction
Cons
- Doesn’t wick moisture/sweat
8
Best Heavy-duty Design
Trusted Medical Solutions Cervical Traction Device
Whether you have a text neck or stiffness around the cervical spine, this home traction device is great to correct its natural curvature. With this ergonomic product, you can treat spinal problems without compromising your mobility or comfort. Plus, its heavy-duty design makes it highly durable and prevents air leaks, so you get the best benefits. Furthermore, the device is very helpful for herniated discs and muscle spasms.
Pros
- Reduces muscle tightness
- Long, adjustable straps
- Efficient airlock system
- Prevents headaches
- Soft, comfortable fabric
Cons
- A bit constricting
9
OTC Over-the-Door Cervical Traction Kit
This over-the-door neck stretcher comes with a sturdy metal bracket that easily secures over any door, so nothing comes in the way of your home traction session. By vertically drawing your cervical spine, the device helps restore its natural C-curve and counters the physical impact of bowing for too long. It also effectively relieves pinched nerves to prevent and reduce headaches as well as other minor pains around the neck and shoulders. So, to obtain the best results with this device, use a warm compress on your shoulders to relieve muscle fatigue.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Reduces muscles spasms
- Enhances blood circulation
- Promotes optimal blood flow
- Suitable for claustrophobic folks
Cons
- Outdated solution
- Requires a tall door
10
Best for Shiatsu Massage
Famedio Cervical Neck Traction Pillow
You can reap three physiological benefits with this single C-shaped cervical traction device. To begin with, it employs graphene heating technology that mobilizes blood flow in the C-spine region and penetrates the heat for instant pain relief. Next, the magnetic nanoparticles relieve fatigue and soothe your muscles. Furthermore, the shiatsu nodes provide acupressure therapy to your cervical region, thereby relieving minor aches and spinal problems that you’ve been enduring.
Pros
- Odorless foam
- Auto off setting
- Improves range of motion
- Soft, breathable cushion
- Anatomical design
- Reduces headaches and spasms
Cons
- Doesn’t stretch as expected
11
Best Professional Remedy
ComfortTrac Deluxe Home Cervical Traction System 2.0
To treat severe issues such as herniated discs and spondylosis, this pneumatic neck traction device works wonders in improving spinal health. With this device, you can control the tractive force by pumping the device to the instructed number of pounds — a feature that sets it apart from all the other devices on the list. Plus, the neck cradle of this device has an anatomically contoured shape and can be adjusted to your desired angle for optimal use.
Pros
- Extremely accurate gauge
- Helps with degenerative disc
- Impressively relieves pain
- Easy to use
- Suitable for claustrophobic folks
- Long-term spinal benefits
Cons
- Expensive
- Bad velcro
Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best cervical traction devices, take a look at our buying guide so you invest in the right product to suit your needs.
How to Select the Best Cervical Traction Device?
Here are a few factors to consider when buying a neck traction device for home:
Comfort And Padding
Regardless of whether you’re investing in a C-shaped neck traction pillow or an inflatable brace, it is extremely important that the device provides optimal padding to your neck, without losing its own shape. At the same time, the fabric or material that your skin is exposed to should be soft and skin-friendly, to prevent rashes or discomfort. It is only then will you be able to use the traction device for 10-20 minutes at a stretch.
Ergonomic And Anatomical Design
The device should have a snug fit around your neck region, or allow your neck to sink in comfortably if you’re using a traction pillow. This way, when you rest your C-spine on the device, you are not vulnerable to any misalignment, soreness, or pressure on unintended areas. Also, ensure that the device is lightweight and doesn’t feel like much weight on your shoulders. Besides, ensure that the device is extremely easy to use, with respect to any straps, pumps, or heat settings involved in it.
Portability
Your neck traction exercises should not be compromised even if you’re traveling frequently. Hence, it is best to invest in a travel-friendly, and portable device to reap its benefits consistently.
Conclusion
In addition to a better posture and regular exercise, the best cervical traction devices are highly effective in relieving pain and improving one's spinal health. And, the above-mentioned list of pneumatic pillows, inflatable neck braces, and over-the-door straps are incredible product choices to help with this. But, we recommend you consult with a chiropractor and thoroughly refer to our buying guide before investing in a product, so you use only what you need. Happy shopping!
FAQ's
Do neck traction devices actually work?
A. If you get your hands on the right device, then it works effectively to ease sore muscles, reduce stiffness, relieve pinched nerves, and restore the natural curve of your neck.
Are home cervical traction devices safe?
A. Yes, home cervical traction devices are safe to use if you follow the instructions manual carefully.
How long should you do cervical traction for?
A. This depends on the device, but the standard duration is 10-15 minutes, twice a day in the first week. You can gradually increase the duration in the following weeks, once you get used to the device.
What are the disadvantages of neck traction devices?
A. Incorrect usage of neck traction devices can cause pain, discomfort and muscle spasms in the area under treatment.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Cervical is a common health condition that causes pain and stiffness in the neck and hands. Our health coach Alvira says that using a high-quality cervical traction device can ease your pain and get relief from the symptoms of cervical spondylosis. All the products listed here have been tried and tested by our expert, and they help relieve stiffness, pinched nerves, and pain. Out of these products, Alvira recommends using the S Inflatable Neck Support Brace for people who have cervical problems and travel frequently. This device is lightweight, travel-friendly, and provides instant relief from neck pain and stiffness.
Article Sources +
1. The Effect of Traction Position in Cervical Traction Therapy Based on Dynamic Simulation Models
Author BIO
Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More
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