Sean Cooney, board-certified chiropractor and owner of RESPORT Chiropractic & Physical Therapy in Chicago, Illinois, describes cervical traction as “axial or long-wise stretching of the neck.” Chiropractors can do this by hand but will often use neck traction devices, too. With a great neck stretcher, you can achieve this relief at home. Just note, if you do plan on using one of these devices on your own, make sure to consult with your chiropractor or health care provider to determine which is right for you and how best to use it. “At-home stretching devices attempt to decompress the joints by applying load to pull the head up away from the body with a sustained load,” Cooney explains. “Chiropractic adjustments utilize an applied load through a joint in a specific angle to try to gap the joints and restore normal range of motion to the joints.” Read on to find our picks for the best neck stretchers, along with expert input on how to safely use these tools and the different types of neck stretches you can do with them. Keep in mind, it’s important to be supervised or properly instructed by a professional. Per Cooney, “As with anything that affects the neck, I would only use a neck stretcher or cervical traction unit under medical supervision.” It’s also important to note that neck stretchers are contraindicated for some diagnoses, such as hypermobility syndrome or ligamentous injuries. Other types of neck stretchers include: Inflatable: An inflatable neck stretcher allows you to adjust the level of pressure applied to suit your individual relief needs, but it might not be a great fit for those who don’t like something around their neck. Static hammock: A static hammock is similar to an over-the-door system but easier to use at home and more portable. The limiting factor is that it must be attached to a door to be utilized. Mechanical: Mechanical traction devices most closely resemble what a health care provider might use, but they tend to be much more expensive than some of the other options. Static pillow: The static neck pillow is extremely easy to use, but offers fewer levels of intensity. Both sides of the device can be used: one for gentle traction, which is great for your first few uses, and one for stronger traction, for once your neck is more accustomed to it. The device also features six massage nodes. What customers say: There are thousands of rave reviews for this neck stretcher—some of which refer to it as “literally life-changing.” Take it from this person, “I have been more joyful, lighthearted and just overall feeling better than I have in years. Like I said, I know this is going to sound silly. But if you’re dealing with any sort of neck pain or tension headaches PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE try this.” The fleece-like fabric makes it comfortable on your neck, and the design is incredibly convenient to use throughout your day. For relief from neck tension, chronic neck pain, headaches, or general soreness, the brand recommends using it for 15 to 30 minutes per day, up to three times a day. It is helpful for alleviating pain caused by back and spinal decompression, neck strains, spasms, or herniated discs. What customers say: Another “life-changing” neck stretcher, this one has a 4.6 overall rating (out of five), and hundreds of reviews to back it up. “My neck hasn’t felt so good in decades! What an amazing feeling! It is interesting to see an immediate change in mood, outlook on life, etc you have when you are suddenly not experiencing the pain that you commonly live with,” one person says. It’s easy to use and comes with an adjustable neck cradle that contours to your neck, providing optimal support. You’ll feel immediate relief with this one. While it does come with a sleek carrying case, the device is bulkier than others. What customers say: With a 4.4 out of five-star rating overall, this neck stretcher has nearly 1,000 five-star ratings and hundreds of positive comments. One person writes, “This was a gift to my daughter who has degenerative disc disease, and she states it helps her immensely. Her husband also has issues, and he says this has given him relief.” The hammock is small and portable, so you can experience that immediate ease anytime and anywhere. Their package includes an eye mask, a storage bag, and a do not disturb door hanger (so no one opens the door while you’re using it). What customers say: There are 3,500 five-star ratings for this hammock, with hundreds of reviews. People love the immediate relief they feel when using it, and the fact that it comes recommended by doctors. “When you’re in pain, any price is worth relief! When I heard from an actual surgeon that he personally uses this product, I had to take a chance…..Totally worth it! While it did not “cure “it’s significantly improved my neck, back & arm pain,” one reviewer writes. “It’s important not to apply too much load to the neck or for too long. Typically there are recommendations, but everyone’s a little bit different depending on their condition and overall neck strength,” Cooney adds. As with any technique, you should always take a holistic approach and consider your full health. “When coming out of cervical traction it’s important to work on strengthening the neck,” Cooney advises. “Loosening up the muscles and then just leaving them can cause them to rebound back into spasm or tension. Establishing a good balance around the neck musculature is ultimately what typically relieves neck pain.”
