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

Overview

The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of performing combined lumbar traction and repeated back extension exercise (McKenzie) on soleus H-reflex, pain, and disability in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy. The main question that it aims to answer is: Does the combination of lumbar traction and back extension exercise (McKenzie) improves soleus H-reflex, pain, and function in patient with lumbosacral radiculopathy? participants will be randomized into 2 groups: one group will include repeated back extension exercise (McKenzie Approach) without mechanical traction and the other group will include the same but in combination with mechanical traction.

Repeated back extension exercises as described by McKenzie from prone position has been widely suggested for patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy (LSR). It has been reported to decrease radicular symptoms which could be due to the decompression effect of this exercise on the compromised nerve root. Moreover, mechanical traction have a debatable effect on lumbosacral patients with little evidence that supports its effectiveness. Thus, the investigators hypothesize that performing a combination of lumbar traction and repeated back extension exercise will improve the soleus H-reflex, pain, and function of lumbosacral radiculopathy patients.

Conditions