HCPCS Code E0849: Pneumatic Cervical Traction Equipment

E0849 is often prescribed when patients have a musculoskeletal or neurologic impairment that limits function. It may be used to treat neck pain, relieve cervical spine disorders, or address cases where conservative treatments and pain relievers have not been fully effective.

Unlike simpler systems that rely on a counterweight and pulley system, E0849 refers to home cervical traction units or free-standing frames that can provide intermittent or cyclical traction, as well as continuous or static traction. These options give providers greater flexibility in tailoring therapy.

Payers may look for evidence, such as neck disability index scores, pain intensity scores, or arm pain scores, to demonstrate the impact of cervical spine conditions. Clinical notes should also describe how cervical traction combined with manual therapy or other approaches contributes to improved clinical outcomes.