Posture Pump Disc Hydrator Review (2024 Updated)
Invented in 1994, the Posture Pump (Disc Hydrator) is used by thousands of people to treat early degenerative disc disease in the neck and a loss of postural curves.
A variety of conditions can result in neck pain and stiffness as a result of this.
What does the posture pump do? Is it safe for home use? What’s the best way to use it?
In our Cervical Posture Pump review, you’ll find all the answers.
In a Hurry?
See our short comparison table for all Posture Pump Models (and avoid confusion):
| Treatment Areas | Best Features | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
Posture Pump 4100-D | Decompresses neck, upper back, and lower back | - New Comfort Visor - molds to the shape of the forehead (no chin or jaw contact) - Comfort pad between neck and back units | $249 at Posture Pump |
Posture Pump 1400-D | Decompresses neck and upper back | - Moderate pressure level - New Comfort Visor - molds to the shape of the forehead (no chin or jaw contact) | $199 at Posture Pump |
Posture Pump 1100-S | Decompresses neck | Upgraded from the first model for more comfort | $149 at Posture Pump |
Posture Pump 4100-S | Decompresses neck, upper back, and low back | Expanding Ellipsoidal Decompression (EED®) | $249 at Posture Pump |
RELATED: Comfortrac Cervical Traction Review
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Overview
How Does the Cervical Posture Pump Work?
The cervical posture pump enhances and restores the essential curves of the neck while allowing rich lubricating fluid to re-enter the joints. It gently lifts and decompresses the neck discs, drawing bulging material back into the disc, as the normal forward curve is restored.
Two MRI Studies, conducted by Dr. C. Norman Shealy (neurosurgeon, researcher, and author) showed that the Cervical Posture Pump has decompressed, shaped, and lubricated the discs and joints of the spine as well as showing disc bulge resorption.
The second study showed the neck pump improved the neck curve by 72% versus 8% with the commonly used traction device.
Posture Pump before and after
Using the Posture Pump correctly can:
- Relieve neck, upper back, and lower back stiffness, headaches, and fatigue
- Decrease cervical disc bulging
- Shape healthy cervical curves
- Decompress and hydrate cervical discs
- Correct forward head & neck posture
When the neck and back lose their normal “c” curve shape, the soft discs between your vertebrae become compressed and the rich lubricating fluid can’t get it and hydrate your discs.
(That’s why it’s also referred to as the disc hydrator)
When the joints are dry they wear unevenly, age faster, and create stiffness, discomfort, and even intolerable pain.
Image from Posture Pump Manual
With easy-to-use hand pumps and uniquely angled air cells, expansion, and contraction (up and down motion) of these air cells create alternating hydration of your spinal discs and joints.
Spending just minutes on the Posture Pump allows you to shape and lubricate your neck and upper back, via an easy-to-use neck traction home device.
Posture Pro, Inc., manufacturer of Posture Pump® Disc Hydrator®, is located in Huntington Beach, California. All Posture Pump® products are made in the U.S.A.
How to Use the Posture Pump for Neck & Shoulder Pain
The cervical pump can be used on any surface (firm mattress, yoga mat, carpet) and is an easy-to-use device.
You simply place the deflated device on a firm comfortable surface, untangle the strap at the back, lie down, slide and center it behind your neck.
Then you center your neck on the neck cradle and put the strap on.
You gradually work your way up to about 15 minutes a day (never getting to the point of pain), by adding a few minutes to each session.
You should start gradually, from 1 minute for the first time, but when the air cells are left inflated for 15-20 minutes – Postural restoration occurs.
We highly recommend consulting with your doctor/physical therapist first.
Chiropractors and doctors have recommended the Posture Pump for over half a million patients in the US, and use it at their clinics regularly.
For the full instructions go here.
Here’s a short video with instructions:
How Often Should You Use the Posture Pump?
Generally, you can use the Posture Pump 2-3 times a week, or even daily if needed.
Using it at night may help you relax and sleep better, while using it in the morning may prevent neck stiffness and increase your range of motion throughout the day.
The Posture Pump is clinically proven in MRIs and other scans to be effective and powerful, so it is recommended to consult with your health practitioner for the frequency of treatments.
Compare Posture Pump with more home neck traction devices
Cervical Posture Pump Side Effects
As with any traction device, you must follow instructions, start gradually, and be careful to not over-stretch your neck. Overuse can cause more harm than good. Also, you need to do a short warm-up routine before using the Posture Pump.
People with the following conditions should not use the posture pump:
Fracture, spinal instability, and implanted spinal hardware have had spinal surgery, acute traumatic injury, extruded disc fragments, inflammatory disease or infections, pregnancy, and people who feel aggravation of symptoms.
Posture Pump Consumer Reviews
Posture Pump 2008 study
Through our research, we’ve found that most users have felt sustained neck pain relief, more than injections and physical therapy.
On the other hand, a few people have stated that it actually made their symptoms worse.
We believe these people have probably ignored the instructions and haven’t used the Posture Pump gradually, which is critical to treatment success.
See many user reviews published on the official site!
Posture Pump 1100 vs. 1400
In this review, we’ve covered the Posture Pump 1100.
However:
There’s a newer model – the Posture Pump 1400 (also known as “The Dual Disk Hydrator”). The Posture Pump 1400 is an upgraded model, which works not only on the neck but the upper back as well.
It also has 2 uniquely angled EED air cells to decompress both your neck and upper back to relieve compressive forward upper body posture.
Lastly, the New Comfort Visor gently molds to your forehead shape, without touching your chin or jaw.
The Dual Disk Hydrator – view at Posture Pro
Posture Pump FAQ
Is the Posture Pump Painful to Use?
You are not supposed to feel pain while using the Posture Pump disc hydrator, however, it can feel uncomfortable the first few times you use it. If you do feel pain, it means you need to reposition yourself on the device until you feel comfortable.
Can You Travel with the Posture Pump?
The Posture pump is lightweight (most devices weigh only about 3 pounds), and durable. It comes fully assembled and you can easily pack it in your suitcase and travel with it.
Conclusion
Considering the frequency of cervical pain in the modern world (and your own…) – the Cervical Posture Pump is an inexpensive yet effective home therapy for neck pain that can be highly valuable.
The Posture Pump dramatically reinforces the cervical curve, takes the pressure off your discs, and gets to the root cause of your neck pain and stiffness – fast.
The Posture Pump is easy to use and can bring dramatic neck pain relief, but you have to follow instructions properly and consult with your doctor before starting (gradually!)
To your health and happiness,
The Back Pain Relief Products Team
