The Effects of Combined Lumbar Traction and Repeated Back Extension Exercise on H-Reflex, Pain, and Disability in Patients With Lumbosacral Radiculopathy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of combining lumbar traction with repeated back extension exercises (McKenzie approach) on patients who have lumbosacral radiculopathy. This condition involves nerve root issues in the lower back causing pain and disability. The study aims to find out if this combined approach improves nerve function, pain levels, and daily functioning compared to back extension exercise alone. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group performs repeated back extension exercises in a prone position, doing three sets of ten repetitions with a one-minute rest between sets, three times a week for six weeks. The other group receives the same back extension exercises combined with mechanical lumbar traction applied using a 3D ActiveTrac motorized table, which applies static traction for 15 minutes at 40% to 60% of body weight, also three times a week for six weeks. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start and after six weeks. Researchers will measure the soleus H-reflex amplitude and latency to evaluate nerve function, as well as pain intensity using a numerical scale and disability through the Oswestry Disability Index. These evaluations will help determine the impact of the treatments on nerve health, pain, and functional ability in people with lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Effect of Combined Lumbar Traction and Repetitive Back Extension Exercise on H-reflex in Lumbosacral Radiculopathy