Effects of cervical traction on muscle activity.

The effect of cervical traction on the musculature of patients with complaints of neck pain has not been thoroughly researched. Lateral neck muscles were selected for study because they receive their innervation from the lower cervical region, where traction has been documented by radiography to have its greatest mechanical effects. Six subjects with complaints of neck pain, limited range of motion, and a positive quadrant test were compared to six normal subjects. Surface electromyography (EMG) of the lateral neck musculature was recorded before, during, and after supine intermittent mechanical traction. No significant difference between groups (p > .05) was noted in EMG recordings at rest and within 10 minutes of traction. Subjective relief was noted up to 12 hours after traction in pain subjects. Cervical traction does not appear to produce immediate muscular relaxation as measured with EMG equipment. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1991;13(5):220-225.