The DDS Cervitrac is a comprehensive cervical traction device designed to alleviate neck pain by providing pneumatic traction to the cervical spine. It offers the flexibility of use in both supine (lying down) and upright (mobile) positions. The device is lightweight, easy to use, and aims to reduce disc pressure within the cervical spine, thereby eliminating pain.
Function Description:
The primary function of the DDS Cervitrac is to provide pneumatic traction to the cervical spine. In cases of herniated or bulging cervical discs, or herniated nucleus pulposus, pressure is often applied to the nerve root, causing pain. The Cervitrac works by increasing the intervertebral space in the cervical spine, allowing the disc or nucleus pulposus to return to its natural position. This process relieves pressure on the nerve root, leading to a reduction in pain. The device can be used for active rehabilitation and offers two main modes of operation: supine position with the Cervitrac stand for stationary treatment, and an upright position for mobile treatment, where the soft traction collar detaches from the frame.
Important Technical Specifications:
The DDS Cervitrac system comprises several key components:
- Chin Collar: This part includes a front bracket, Velcro attachments, a chin pad, and a chest pad. It secures the chin and chest during traction.
- Traction Belt: This belt features Velcro attachments, a back bracket, and an air injection nozzle. It is the inflatable component that provides the traction force.
- Stand: The stand includes a stand pad, head support, and neck support, designed for use in the supine position.
- Hand Pump: This component consists of a gauge to monitor pressure, a pump hose, a pump clip, and a pump handle. It is used to inflate the traction belt.
The recommended inflation pressure for the traction belt is between 7 and 9 PSI, or less, depending on user comfort. Users are advised to start with a low pressure of 5 PSI on the first day, gradually increasing to 7 PSI on the second day, and then to 9 PSI on the third day. Inflation should be done slowly, at a rate no faster than one stroke in each direction every 5 seconds.
Usage Features:
The DDS Cervitrac offers two distinct usage modes:
Supine Position:
- Place the stand on a level floor surface.
- Gently pull the air injection hose to release any remaining air from the traction belt, ensuring it is completely deflated.
- Attach the traction belt to the center of the stand via Velcro.
- Lie down and carefully place your neck on the center of the traction belt with your legs bent at a 45-degree angle.
- While looking straight up, place the chin collar on your chin and fasten it to the traction belt via the Velcro attachments.
- Connect the hand air pump to the air valve, precisely attaching the air injection tong with the air valve.
- Slowly inflate the belt using the hand air pump, following the recommended pressure progression (5 PSI, then 7 PSI, then 9 PSI or less).
- Wear the device for 15-30 minutes. Air pressure can be adjusted by momentarily pressing the air valve to release air if discomfort is experienced.
Important Warning for Supine Position: Do not attempt to sit up, stand, or move your head left or right when using the Cervitrac from the supine position. Users must remain in the supine position until the Cervitrac is completely removed.
Sitting or Standing Position:
- Gently pull the air injection hose to release any remaining air from the traction belt, ensuring it is completely deflated.
- Connect the traction collar to the fixed chin collar on one side to prepare for positioning on the neck.
- Position the fixed chin collar so that the chin fits comfortably in the chin groove, ensuring the device is attached evenly and centered around the neck.
- Connect the hand air pump to the air valve, precisely attaching the air injection tongs with the air valve.
- Slowly inflate the belt using the hand air pump, following the recommended pressure progression (5 PSI, then 7 PSI, then 9 PSI or less).
- Wear the device for 15-30 minutes. Air pressure can be adjusted by momentarily pressing the air valve to release air if discomfort is experienced.
Important Warning for Sitting/Standing Position: Do not attempt to lie down or move your head left or right while wearing the brace.
General Precautions:
- The DDS Cervitrac should be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.
- Inflate with extreme caution, no faster than one pump in each direction every 5 seconds.
- Immediately release air to reach a comfortable PSI level if experiencing any discomfort.
- Recommended usage is 9 PSI or less depending on comfort.
- Exercise extra caution with patients having TMJ concerns.
- Do not turn the neck left or right while wearing the device.
- Consult a physician if pain increases.
- Handle the hand air pump with care to prevent malfunction from dropping.
- Shut the air valve tightly before washing to prevent water entry.
Maintenance Features:
Cleaning the Product:
- Before cleaning, separate the traction belt, neck support, and sponge pad from the stand.
- Neck support and stand: Clean with a damp cloth and let it dry in a shaded area.
- Traction belt: Inject air with approximately 5 psi of pressure, then turn the air inlet clockwise to close it, preventing water entry. Use a smooth sponge and gently scrub the product while soaked in water mixed with neutral detergent. After cleaning, use a dry cloth to blot away excess moisture and let it dry in a shaded area.
- Sponge pad: Scrub gently while soaked in water mixed with neutral detergent. After cleaning, use a dry cloth to blot away excess moisture and let it dry in a shaded area.
- Do not wring out or use the spin cycle of a washing machine.
- Do not use any chemical product other than neutral detergent.
- Do not apply heat from a dryer when drying.
Storage and Maintenance:
- Release air from the product when not in use.
- Keep the product out of reach of children.
- Keep the belt away from sharp objects or high-temperature and flammable materials, including heaters.
- Store the product in a place where temperature/humidity levels are not high, and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
Warranty:
DDS, Inc. provides a limited 3-year warranty, covering repair or replacement of the unit free of charge for defects in workmanship or materials from the date of purchase. To obtain service, mail the warranty card at the time of purchase, and return the defective product to the service center with the purchase receipt and $5.00 postage and handling. The warranty does not cover misuse or deliberate mishandling. Any implied warranties are limited to the 3-year duration of the written limited warranty. The warranty gives specific legal rights, which may vary by state.