Prone Lumbar Traction: An Underexplored Alternative for Lumbar Radiculopathy and Discogenic Low Back pain

Abstract

Lumbar disc disorders and herniation are leading causes ofdiscogenic low back pain (DLBP) and lumbar radiculopathy,often resulting in spinal surgery. Lumbar traction is aneffective conservative treatment for DLBP, shown todecrease pain, improve functional disability, and positivelyaffect disc height and herniation index. While typicallyapplied in the supine position, lumbar traction can also beadministered prone. However, many practitioners areunaware of this alternative approach. Studies havedemonstrated that prone lumbar traction can effectivelyalleviate pain and disability in persons with DLBP, lumbardisc herniation, and radiculopathy. Some research suggestsit may be more effective than supine traction for certainsubgroups. Despite these promising findings, additionalresearch is needed to further explore the clinical andbiomechanical effects of prone traction. Additionally, it isimportant to identify which patient subgroups are morelikely to benefit from prone versus supine traction. Thisreview explores the potential of prone lumbar traction asan underutilized yet promising alternative in themanagement of DLBP and lumbar radiculopathy. Keywords: Disc herniation, intervertebral discdisplacement, low back pain, radiculopathy, sciatica,traction, physical therapy.