Effects Of One-Fifth Versus One-Third of Bodyweight Lumbar Traction In Prone Lying Position On Straight Leg Raise Test - an Experimental study

This study investigates the effectiveness of lumbar mechanical traction at two different intensities—one-fifth vs. one-third of body weight—applied in the prone lying position in patients with prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD) of the lumbar spine. PIVD is a leading cause of low back pain (LBP), particularly prevalent in the Indian population, and is associated with nerve root compression, radiating pain, and functional impairment.

Although lumbar traction is a commonly used physiotherapy modality, no prior studies have compared different traction intensities in the prone position. This study aims to fill that gap by evaluating outcomes in terms of pain intensity, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Straight Leg Raise (SLR) range of motion. Both groups receive conventional physiotherapy, with Group A receiving traction at one-fifth body weight and Group B at one-third.

The study highlights the need to determine whether higher-intensity traction offers superior clinical benefits in reducing pain and improving function in patients with lumbar PIVD.