Funny looking but really helps relieve pressure!
I got this after I learned that I had a damaged vertebrae in my neck that was pinching the nerves to my shoulders. After the chiropractor adjusted my cervical bones, he suggested that a neck traction device might be helpful for keeping the discs from being compressed and causing more pain. I researched dozens of neck traction devices--including ones that you hang over a door or bed and other, more expensive and complicated options. This seemed like the best value, most highly rated and easiest to use.<br /><br />It really is simple to use. This comes with three pieces: an inflatable neck brace, a bulb and valve to blow it up, and a carrying bag. You attach the bulb to the tubing on the brace. Wrap the brace around your neck and fasten it in place, using the two Velcro straps. Then use the bulb to blow up the three sections to the desired height. Once you reach a comfortable level of inflation, there's a little bee-bee inside the tubing that you use to close off the hose.<br /><br />The manufacturer advises using this for about 15 minutes or so, a few times a day, to start with. However, I was traveling about the time I was experiencing so much pain. I found that, by wearing this neck brace while driving, it made going over bumps on the road less jarring and painful. I actually wore it for several hours at a time this way. With the ball and valve, I could adjust the pressure up or down, as I experienced a change in altitude. It was easy to take off and put back on, whenever I stopped for food, fuel, etc.<br /><br />I also find this device helpful when reading or working on the computer to keep from bending my neck forward and causing pain. I do NOT use it for sleeping, however!<br /><br />The three inflatable chambers are covered with a soft, velveteen material that makes them quite comfortable to wear. It can get a bit hot, if the weather is warm and you wear it a long time.  I recommend that you not only use this to take the pressure off your neck vertebrae, but also do some stretches to strengthen your neck muscles and consciously correct your posture to keep from slumping. When the device is not in use, you can simply set it aside, or deflate and store it in its drawstring pouch. It's very lightweight and portable, easily fitting into a purse, backpack or luggage to travel.<br /><br />At less than $20, I felt like I got a really good deal. It sure beats the horrible pain I was experiencing before!
Rating: 4 stars