Abstract
Background and Objectives: Lumbar traction is widely used as a non-operative treatment for lumbar intervertebral disc disease. The effect of traditional traction (TT) using linear-type traction devices remains controversial for various reasons, including technical limitations. Thus, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the newly developed lumbar lordotic curve-controlled traction (L-LCCT) and TT on functional changes in patients and morphological changes in the vertebral disc. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 patients with lumbar intervertebral disc disease at the L4/5 or L5/S1 level as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging were recruited and divided into two groups (L-LCCT or TT). The comprehensive health status changes of the patients were recorded using pain and functional scores (the visual analogue scale, the Oswestry Disability Index, and the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire) and morphological changes (in the lumbar central canal area) before and after traction treatment. Results: Pain scores were significantly decreased after traction in both groups (p < 0.05). However, functional scores and morphological changes improved significantly after treatment in the L-LCCT group only (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We suggest that L-LCCT is a viable option for resolving the technical limitations of TT by maintaining the lumbar lordotic curve in patients with lumbar intervertebral disc disease.
Highlights
Lumbar traction is widely used on patients with intervertebral disc disease, as a way to reduce pressure on the vertebral foramen by releasing tension between adjacent spinal vertebrae [1,2,3]
In other studies on patients with intervertebral disc disease, traction showed no significant benefits compared to other treatment techniques such as physical therapy and medication [11,12,13,14]
All patients with intervertebral disc disease were selected from the outpatient clinic
Summary
Lumbar traction is widely used on patients with intervertebral disc disease, as a way to reduce pressure on the vertebral foramen by releasing tension between adjacent spinal vertebrae [1,2,3] It can improve spinal alignment and reduce unnecessary muscle spasms surrounding the lesioned area [4]. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the newly developed lumbar lordotic curve-controlled traction (L-LCCT) and TT on functional changes in patients and morphological changes in the vertebral disc. The comprehensive health status changes of the patients were recorded using pain and functional scores (the visual analogue scale, the Oswestry Disability Index, and the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire) and morphological changes (in the lumbar central canal area) before and after traction treatment. Conclusions: We suggest that L-LCCT is a viable option for resolving the technical limitations of TT by maintaining the lumbar lordotic curve in patients with lumbar intervertebral disc disease
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