When is lumbar traction indicated?

When is lumbar traction indicated?

• A. During acute back pain without radicular symptoms
• B. In the absence of any symptoms
• C. In cases showing signs of nerve root or disc pathology
• D. Only after surgical intervention

Answer: (C)

Lumbar traction is indicated in cases showing signs of nerve root or disc pathology due to its ability to reduce intradiscal pressure and relieve symptoms associated with herniated discs and nerve root compression. By applying a mechanical force to the spine, lumbar traction can help to create space between vertebrae, potentially alleviating pressure on nerve roots and reducing pain. This therapeutic approach can also promote the retraction of herniated discs, which may help with symptom management for those exhibiting radicular symptoms like sciatica or lower extremity pain. The other options do not align with the typical clinical indications for lumbar traction. Acute back pain without radicular symptoms does not generally warrant the use of traction, as these cases might be better managed with other conservative treatments. Additionally, administering traction in the absence of any symptoms is not advisable, as it would not provide any therapeutic benefit. Lastly, while some individuals may undergo traction following surgical intervention, it is not restricted solely to post-surgical scenarios. Therefore, option C reflects the appropriate and clinically supported use of lumbar traction for conditions suggesting nerve root or disc issues.

Lumbar traction is indicated in cases showing signs of nerve root or disc pathology due to its ability to reduce intradiscal pressure and relieve symptoms associated with herniated discs and nerve root compression. By applying a mechanical force to the spine, lumbar traction can help to create space between vertebrae, potentially alleviating pressure on nerve roots and reducing pain. This therapeutic approach can also promote the retraction of herniated discs, which may help with symptom management for those exhibiting radicular symptoms like sciatica or lower extremity pain.

The other options do not align with the typical clinical indications for lumbar traction. Acute back pain without radicular symptoms does not generally warrant the use of traction, as these cases might be better managed with other conservative treatments. Additionally, administering traction in the absence of any symptoms is not advisable, as it would not provide any therapeutic benefit. Lastly, while some individuals may undergo traction following surgical intervention, it is not restricted solely to post-surgical scenarios. Therefore, option C reflects the appropriate and clinically supported use of lumbar traction for conditions suggesting nerve root or disc issues.