Pneumatic Traction and Spinal Unloading Devices

This policy addresses use of pneumatic traction and spinal unloading devices (e.g., home traction systems, pneumatic vests, Ctrac) for short-term cervical or lumbar traction and spinal decompression to relieve muscle spasm, radiculopathy/nerve-root compression, symptomatic lumbar intervertebral disc disease (including studied L4–5 and L5–S1 populations), degenerative/osteoarthritic spinal pain, certain nerve compression syndromes, and chronic neck pain with radiating symptoms in selected patients who demonstrate symptomatic response. Major limitations: the devices are considered experimental/investigational and not covered in any setting, coverage is governed by the member’s benefit plan (and this policy is inactive/not for claims), and available evidence is limited/insufficient to support broad clinical effectiveness.

"Short-term spinal traction (cervical or lumbar) for relief of pain from muscle spasm."