Combining lumbar traction and back extension exercises for lumbosacral radiculopathy
The Effects of Combined Lumbar Traction and Repeated Back Extension Exercise on H-Reflex, Pain, and Disability in Patients With Lumbosacral Radiculopathy
This study is testing if adding mechanical traction to back extension exercises can help people with lumbosacral radiculopathy feel better and improve their daily activities more than just doing the exercises alone.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 35 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cairo) |
| Trial ID | NCT06216288 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of combining lumbar traction with repetitive back extension exercises (McKenzie approach) on the H-reflex, pain levels, and functional ability in patients suffering from lumbosacral radiculopathy. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will perform back extension exercises alone, while the other will perform the same exercises with added mechanical traction. The goal is to determine if this combination leads to greater improvements in symptoms and function compared to exercises alone.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 35-60 with chronic unilateral lumbosacral radiculopathy lasting more than three months, specifically those with L5-S1 postero-lateral disc herniation.
Not a fit: Patients with prior lumbosacral surgery, stenosis, scoliosis, cardiac issues, cancer, peripheral neuropathy, or upper motor neuron injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy, potentially reducing pain and improving function.
How similar studies have performed: While the effectiveness of mechanical traction remains debatable, the combination of these approaches has not been extensively tested, making this study a novel investigation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patient with chronic unilateral lumbosacral radiculopathy (more than 3 months duration) 2. Age:35- 60 years 3. Both male and female 4. People with L5-S1 postero-lateral disc herniation or protrusion. 5. people with positive straight leg raise Exclusion Criteria: 1. Subjects with lumbosacral Surgery. 2. Subjects with stenosis or scoliosis. 3. Subjects with cardiac problem or cancer. 4. Subjects with peripheral neuropathy. 5. Subjects with upper motor neuron injury.
Where this trial is running
Cairo
- Ahmed ElMelhat [aelmelhat] — Cairo, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ahmed El Melhat, PhD
- Email: ahmed.elmelhat@cu.edu.eg
- Phone: 01112595022
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.