We get asked all the time how Dr. Bodzin implemented traction in his practice. The following information and interview is provided for educational purposes by Dr. Miles Bodzin, Founder & CEO of Cash Practice® Systems. This is not a recommendation on how you should run your practice.

Dr. Bodzin, at what point in the care plan would you typically have the patient begin exercises, stretches, and use of the traction unit?

  • Let me start by saying that in my practice the typical corrective care plan was usually 80 visits over a 12 month period. 
  • I would start exercises and stretches at first re-exam (one month into care).
  • Traction (without the traction unit) would start in the second month.
  • The traction unit was included on the third month.
  • After three-to-four months on the traction unit, I would start them on a cervical pillow as well.
 For what duration does a patient use the unit? 
  • Each cycle of increasing the time to 15 minutes would take about a month. We would do 4-6 cycles. 
  • The whole process would take 8-9 months once started. 
  • Once they completed the last cycle, the patient would continue to use the traction unit once per week. 
  • Most people liked using it to relax on once they got through the program.
How do I know how much tension to begin with on the forehead strap?  How much to increase?
  • When you start, the tension it is very light (barely any at all). Remember: it’s not the amount of tension that's important, but the duration the tension is applied.  
  • At each re-evaluation, I would increase tension just slightly as the patient’s head was lying further back, however, the overall tension felt the same each time.

Did the patient purchase the traction unit?

  • I would include them on my Care Plan (for a fee).
 When would you take a lateral cervical progress film?
  • For most people, I took films at the start and end of care. I did not like the idea of taking sets more often than necessary unless there were reasons beyond seeing progress. If someone had scoliosis, I would take a set at six months too.

In addition, here are the links to download the Cervical Traction Instructions & Home Exercises that Dr. Bodzin would give to his patients.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. By using the said device, you hold harmless Cash Practice Inc.  Cash Practice Inc is not liable for any harm that may come to doctor or patient as a result of its use.