Various forms of lumbar traction has been used for the relief of pain since the time of Hippocrates. During the 1950’s and 1960’s it became a popular, and until today it is used by physiotherapists for threatening patients with low back and leg pain.[1] Although its effectiveness is still being questioned by a few clinical trials (see further), there are three benefits described of lumbar traction: distraction to increase the intervertebral space, tensing of the posterior longitudinal vertebral ligament and suction to draw the disc protrusion towards the center of the joint.[2]
Different types of lumbar traction can be used.[3] First of all there is mechanical traction, using a mechanical device and a specially designed table that is divided into two sections.[2] The device delivers a certain tension to perform the traction. The patient wears a harness, which consists of two rings, to support the patient.[4]
Autotraction also utilized a table divided into two sections, the patient provides the traction force by pulling with the arms and/or pushing with the feet.[2] Finally there is manual traction performed by the therapist, pulling at the patient his ankles. Another way of manual traction is with the patient his legs over the therapist his shoulders, the therapist will place his arms on the patient’s thighs and pull.[4]
Continuous traction is applied for several hours with the use of a small amount of weight. Sustained traction has a shorter duration but a larger tension force.[3] Intermittent traction is similar sustained traction but alternately applies and releases the traction force at certain intervals.[2