Can shoulder and neck traction treat numbness in the fingernails?
Mar 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
Cervical spondylosis is a condition caused by degenerative changes in the cervical spine, which may lead to injury of the local joints and easily compress the nerves, resulting in symptoms such as numbness in the fingers and restricted movement. Cervical traction is a common physical therapy that, through appropriate pulling, can relieve a series of symptoms caused by compression of the nerve roots.
Generally speaking, neck and shoulder traction may help alleviate nail numbness caused by cervical spondylosis to some extent. However, if the numbness is caused by other factors, neck and shoulder traction may not provide effective treatment. It is recommended to visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause and follow medical advice for appropriate treatment. The analysis is as follows:
Cervical spondylosis is a condition caused by degenerative changes in the cervical spine, which may lead to joint damage and nerve compression, resulting in symptoms such as finger numbness and restricted movement. Neck and shoulder traction is a common physical therapy; appropriate traction can relieve a series of symptoms caused by nerve root compression, including pain, soreness, numbness, and heaviness in the neck, shoulders, and upper limbs. By increasing the intervertebral space and intervertebral foramina, traction can effectively reduce the pressure and irritation on the nerve roots, thus alleviating symptoms such as nail numbness.
However, not all cases of nail numbness are caused by cervical spondylosis. Other possible causes include peripheral neuropathy, trauma, tendon sheath inflammation, diabetes, and more. If nail numbness is caused by other conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy or diabetes, neck and shoulder traction may not offer effective treatment.
Patients should develop good lifestyle habits, avoid excessive fatigue and poor posture, and promote recovery.
