The Effects of Lumbar Traction in Lumbar Discal Hernia: A Single Case Study

Abstract

Introduction   People have always had back pain. Back pain was described in the distant past in old texts from 1500 BC. The word sciatica has been used since Ancient Greek times and Hippocrates (460-370 BC) described “sciatic” pain as mainly affecting men aged 40-60 years (Allan and Waddell, 1989).   Purpose of the study   This is a single case study about whereas the mechanical effects of lumbar traction are well substantiated.   Methods   We have used the intermittent variable of the traction. We used a Platinum 3D traction table.MRI of the lumbar spine of the patient was recorded before and after. Pain intensity was rated on VAS, TSK questionnaire andSEC.   Discussion   Based on the findings of this single case, further study is needed to determine optimal treatment duration, frequency, and mode of administering lumbar traction. In this case, there was a real change in the discs after the treatment with problems that were the fear of movement and of course, the patient was experiencing the movement schemes that were connected with the pathology. Exercises are necessary to have a good situation for everyday life.    Conclusions   Horizontal traction was evidently effective in increasing the disc height of lower lumbar levels, particularly in the posterior regions of the discs. The situation of the hernia is really changed in nearly 12-15 treatment sessions. A rehabilitation program cannot be seen as a stand-alone system, but as a whole and the scope is to have a full rehabilitation of the patient.