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Mechanical traction for mechanical neck disorders: a systematic review.
Nadine Graham1, Anita R Gross, Charlie Goldsmith
1School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, and St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Canada. nadinelino@sympatico.ca
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|May 17, 2006
Summary
Intermittent mechanical traction may reduce pain in adults with mechanical neck disorders, but continuous traction shows no significant benefit. More high-quality research is needed due to low-quality trials.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Therapy
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Mechanical neck disorders are common, causing pain and disability.
- The effectiveness of mechanical traction for these conditions is uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on mechanical traction for mechanical neck disorders.
- To assess traction's impact on pain, function, patient satisfaction, and global perceived effect.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of RCTs up to September 2004.
- Qualitative analysis using pre-defined evidence levels.
- Data abstraction and quality assessment by two independent reviewers.
- Meta-analysis using random effects model where appropriate.
Main Results:
- Ten trials were included; only one was high-quality.
- Low-quality trials suggest intermittent traction may benefit pain reduction.
- Continuous traction demonstrated no significant difference in outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Evidence for continuous and intermittent traction is inconclusive due to poor trial quality.
- Intermittent traction may be favored, while continuous traction is not supported.
- Future research requires improved design and detailed traction characteristic reporting.