What angle of cervical flexion is most appropriate when performing mechanical cervical traction for the C5-C7 levels?

When performing mechanical cervical traction for the C5-C7 levels, an angle of 25° to 30° of cervical flexion is considered most appropriate. This specific angle of flexion is optimal for effectively targeting the lower cervical vertebrae, especially C5 through C7, which are located in the mid to lower region of the cervical spine.

Maintaining the neck at this angle helps to open the intervertebral foramen and reduces pressure on the cervical discs, facilitating improved traction effectiveness. The flexion promotes a better alignment of the cervical spine's curvature, allowing for increased separation of the vertebral bodies at the targeted levels. By achieving this separation, the traction can relieve symptoms associated with radiculopathy, herniated discs, or other types of cervical spine issues.

Angles outside the 25° to 30° range could compromise traction efficacy — for instance, a smaller angle may not adequately decompress the C5-C7 levels, while larger angles may inadvertently shift stress to adjacent vertebrae or lead to discomfort in the patient. Thus, utilizing a 25° to 30° angle is well-supported by clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice for addressing conditions affecting the lower cervical region.