What is the treatment time for a herniated disc when using traction?

What is the treatment time for a herniated disc when using traction?

• A. 1-3 minutes
• B. 10-20 minutes
• C. 20-30 minutes
• D. 5-10 minutes

Answer: (D)

Traction aims to unload the spine enough to reduce the disc bulge and relieve nerve irritation, but in an acute herniation the tissues are sensitive and fatigue easily. A short, controlled duration — about 5 to 10 minutes — provides a balance: it can help create some vertebral separation and lower intradiscal pressure without provoking muscle guarding or worsening symptoms. If the patient tolerates it well, you can gradually extend the time in later sessions, but starting with 5-10 minutes is the safest and most effective approach for an acute disc issue. Shorter times like 1-3 minutes may not produce meaningful unloading, while longer sessions such as 20-30 minutes can increase irritation and fatigue.

Traction aims to unload the spine enough to reduce the disc bulge and relieve nerve irritation, but in an acute herniation the tissues are sensitive and fatigue easily. A short, controlled duration — about 5 to 10 minutes — provides a balance: it can help create some vertebral separation and lower intradiscal pressure without provoking muscle guarding or worsening symptoms. If the patient tolerates it well, you can gradually extend the time in later sessions, but starting with 5-10 minutes is the safest and most effective approach for an acute disc issue. Shorter times like 1-3 minutes may not produce meaningful unloading, while longer sessions such as 20-30 minutes can increase irritation and fatigue.