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The best cervical traction devices to try for alleviating neck pain
Cervical traction devices, or neck stretchers, can help relieve neck pain when used properly. Here’s what experts say to keep in mind when shopping for one.
How I picked the best cervical traction devices
I rounded up product recommendations for the best cervical traction devices from our experts, including Hansraj, an orthopedic and spinal surgeon and Jenna Crivelli, a physical therapist with experience treating scoliosis using the Schroth method. Here is what our experts recommend keeping in mind when looking for a cervical traction device:
- Modifiability: Hansraj recommends considering the importance of using a cervical traction device with some degree of modifiability. In other words, it’s better to use a device that can be partially adjusted based on your needs. “[Think about] what the limits are of stretching, and adjustability in height,” he says. This means making sure the device is the right fit. You don’t want a cervical traction cushion that’s too high or too short for your body, otherwise this would reduce the product’s effectiveness.
- Comfort and material: Similar to modifiability, Hansraj recommends considering the comfort and material of a cervical traction device. This includes looking for cushions made from ultra-soft, breathable and durable material, such as memory foam, polyurethane foam, polyfoam and blended latex. These materials have “the ability to ”hug“ and “conform“ to the structures of your neck, providing a comfortable basis of device engagement to the neck and head.
- Shape and size: The structure and size of a cervical traction cushion is also crucial. This means looking for products that help form your neck into the proper shape, according to Hansraj. “A design that matches the C-shaped lordosis curvature of the neck while supporting the head can enhance personal comfort,” he says. “Lordosis of the neck is emphasized during traction.” Lordosis refers to the natural curvature of the spine.
The best cervical traction products in 2025
I spoke with Hansraj and Crivelli to get their input on the best products for neck traction and addressing neck pain. Below, I rounded up products based on recommendations and guidance from our experts.
Eromax Travel Contour Memory Foam Pillow
What we like
- Comes with a bag
- Fits in a suitcase
Something to note
- Nothing to note at this time
This cervical traction pillow, which has a 4.3-star average rating from 3,406 reviews on Amazon, is travel friendly thanks to its small size (12 x 11 in.). The pillow has a small square shape and a curve in the middle to help support the neck when you lay on your back, though you can also use it if you’re a side or stomach sleeper. It’s made of a breathable memory foam material and has a removable cover that’s machine washable. Plus, if you want a similar version for your bed, you can buy the pillow in three other sizes compatible with twin-, full-, queen- and king-sized mattresses. Pros: Comes with a bag, Fits in a suitcase, Cooling Cons: Nothing to note at this time
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow
What we like
- Soft and plush
- Memory foam filling
- Multiple heights
Something to note
- Nothing to note at this time
This memory foam pillow from Brooklyn Bedding is recommended by Hansraj, who says that pillows can provide cervical neck support and relieve neck pain. Although they aren’t technically cervical traction devices, they still go a long way in helping people with neck pain, according to Hansraj. “These pillows support proper neck alignment during sleep, which can help prevent and alleviate neck pain,” he says. “They’re a good choice for those looking to maintain cervical health passively and are particularly beneficial for people with posture-related neck issues.” This particular pillow is made from memory foam, which evenly supports weight distribution and conforms to your body’s movements, according to the brand. Plus, you can choose from either a low or high profile for the pillow, depending on the height that works best for you.
Epabo Ergonomic Cervical Pillow
What we like
- Unique shape
- Memory foam filling
- Multiple sizes
Something to note
- Nothing to note at this time
Hansraj also recommends this cervical pillow to provide relief to the cervical spine. According to the brand, its ergonomic design makes it a good fit for side, back, and stomach sleepers. The rectangular memory foam pillow has a groove in the middle, which gently holds the back or side of the neck as you sleep. The pillow is also made from breathable memory foam, which promotes air circulation, which is great for those who tend to get very hot when they sleep
Restcloud Neck and Shoulder Relaxer
What we like
- Easy to use
- Multiple shades
Something to note
- Only one size
This small, foam-filled cushion, which has a 4.2-star average rating from 88,018 reviews on Amazon, is ideal for stretching and relaxing the muscles in the neck. It can also help relieve neck pain by using it for 10 minutes each day, according to the brand. You can use it by placing it on the floor, lying on your back with the device underneath your neck and slightly bending your knees. The ergonomic c-shaped cushion design helps ease the cervical spine and though your neck may take a few days to adjust to the device, it doesn’t cause pain.
Body Back Buddy Classic USA-Made Handheld Full Body Massage Cane
What we like
- Good for full body
- Adjustable
Something to note
- May cause discomfort at start
This handheld massage cane from Body Back Buddy, commonly referred to as an “S cane,” is recommended by Jenna Crivelli. This isn’t technically a cervical traction device, but like a cervical pillow, it can help relieve pain in the back of the neck, according to Crivelli. You can use the device to reach different spots around the body, including ones that are sometimes difficult to reach by hand, such as the back of the neck, the shoulders and the upper back. Additionally, the device has different-shaped knobs attached to it, which help gently but firmly apply pressure to points on the body to target and diminish pain, according to the brand. When used properly, the device helps address pain affiliated with muscle tension, aches and soreness.
AmazonBasics High-Density Round Foam Roller
What we like
- Good for full body
- Easy to use at gym
Something to note
- Nothing to note at this time
Foam rollers are commonly used in exercises such as yoga and pilates, but they can also help relieve neck pain, according to Crivelli. To address the cervical spine, Crivelli recommends using a 36-inch roller to do exercises like chin tucks while lying down and pec stretches. This foam roller from AmazonBasics is high-density, meaning it’s firm in texture and holds its shape well after use. Additionally, the roller, which is 12 x 6 x 6 inches, is perfect for various types of exercise such as flexibility and strengthening, according to the brand.
Related
How to shop for cervical traction devices
There are a lot of factors that contribute to a good cervical traction device, such as adjustability and price point. Our experts also recommend putting a lot of thought into the type of device before buying one.
Types of cervical traction and support devices
Inflatable
An inflatable cervical traction device uses both cushioning and air to provide support and traction to the neck. Hansraj likes these because they’re easy to adjust based on personal preference. These devices come with a tube and inflation valve that you pump to inflate the cushion to different levels of firmness.
Cervical pillows
As Hansraj mentioned above, cervical neck pillows aren’t technically traction devices, but they help provide support to cervical spine alignment in a more subtle way while you sleep. Look for pillows that are made of memory foam, since they more easily conform to the shape of your head and neck, and provide more support than non-memory foam cushions.
Posture pumps
In addition to inflatable cervical traction devices and cervical pillows, Hansraj recommends buying a posture pump-style device to provide relief to the neck. Hansraj says that these types of cervical traction devices help in promoting proper posture and alleviating pain from degenerative disc diseases.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Ken Hansraj, is a board-certified surgeon, the author of “Watch Your Back” and chief of spine surgery at Northern Medical Group Spine Center.
- Jenna Crivelli, DPT, is a SSOL Schroth-certified physical therapist at Stroma Physical Therapy
Why trust NBC Select?
I’m a commerce editor at NBC Select, where I cover food, kitchen, cleaning and lifestyle content in general. For this story, I spoke to a board-certified surgeon and a physical therapist.
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