Contraindications for Spinal Traction

Creator: Dr. Shivani Nayar
Keywords: Unstable spine, Diseases affecting vertebra or spinal cord, Vertebral fractures, Extruded disk fragmentation, Spinal cord compression, Osteoporosis, Precautions

Written by - Dr. Shivani Nayar, B.Sc (Physiotherapy), PG in Hospital Management

Medically Reviewed by - Dr. Nithin Jayan, MBBS, DNB

Last Updated on Apr 25, 2022

Contraindications

Traction to the lumbar spine is contraindicated in various conditions. The physical therapist should take a proper medical history before prescribing traction for lumbar pain.

Acute strains
Sprains
Inflammation
Respiratory problem
Claustrophobia
Osteoporosis
Infection
Tumor
Rheumatoid arthritis
Pregnancy
Cardiovascular disease
Hernia
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Neoplasms

Pott's Disease and all inflammatory diseases of the vertebrae
Cardiac or circulatory disease and severe respiratory problems
Post-operative patients within 3 months of back surgery
Vertebral fracture within 6 months of initial injury
Fusion with internal fixation

Published on Feb 02, 2016
Last Updated on Apr 25, 2022

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Comments

grahamgs - Oct 16, 2013

I am a patient who had a multi-level lumbar laminectomy and now present with radiating leg pain that has been diagnosed as a pinched nerve. Is traction a viable form of treatment since I am 5 months removed from the surgery?? I DID NOT have any fusion.

raj_aryan - Jul 09, 2012

I suffer from Discogenic pain. What sedentary excercises should I do sitting in the office?