Neck pain is a common ailment, with up to 50% of the population experiencing cervical spine discomfort at some point in their lives. In 2012, a pilot study led by Andrzej Myśliwiec and colleagues at the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland, explored innovative treatment methods for this prevalent issue. The study focused on the effectiveness of the Saunders traction device and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in improving the cervical spine range of motion (ROM) for patients suffering from chronic neck pain.

The research included 39 participants aged between 26 and 62 years, all of whom reported chronic neck pain due to overload and poor posture. These individuals were randomly assigned to three distinct treatment groups:

1. Group 1: Received only Saunders traction, where traction was applied to a noticeable yet painless degree.
2. Group 2: Underwent a combination of Saunders traction and TENS.
3. Group 3: Received solely TENS therapy.

Each participant completed 10 treatment sessions, scheduled no more than three days apart. The researchers used a CROM (Cervical Range of Motion) device to measure ROM in the sagittal, coronal, and horizontal planes at various stages: before the first session, after the fifth and tenth sessions, and three weeks post-treatment.

The results were encouraging, showing significant improvements in ROM, particularly in the coronal and horizontal planes, and in extension movements. The most notable therapeutic benefits were observed in the group that received the combination of traction and TENS. This group showed the greatest enhancement in their cervical spine ROM, suggesting that the synergistic effect of these treatments might be more effective than either therapy alone.

This pilot study indicates that combining Saunders traction with TENS could offer substantial relief for those experiencing chronic neck pain, leading to improved mobility and reduced discomfort. While the findings are promising, further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is necessary to confirm these results and refine treatment protocols.

The study by Myśliwiec and colleagues provides a hopeful glimpse into non-invasive treatment options for neck pain, potentially paving the way for more effective and accessible interventions for those suffering from this common condition.

Reference: Myśliwiec, A., Saulicz, E., Kuszewski, M., Wolny, T., Saulicz, M., & Knapik, A. (2012). The effect of Saunders traction and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on the cervical spine range of motion in patients reporting neck pain-pilot study. Ortopedia, Traumatologia, Rehabilitacja, 14(6), 515-524.