PAM Mechanical Modalities & Traction Therapy

Question 1

What angle of cervical flexion is recommended when applying traction to target an intervertebral disc herniation?

Accepted Answer

25 degrees

Answer

0 degrees (neutral)

Answer

10 degrees

Answer

45 degrees

Question 2

What minimum traction force is generally required to achieve lumbar vertebral separation?

Accepted Answer

50% of body weight

Answer

10% of body weight

Answer

25% of body weight

Answer

75% of body weight

Question 3

Sustained (continuous) spinal traction is MOST indicated for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Disc herniation with nerve root compression

Answer

Acute paraspinal muscle spasm

Answer

Facet joint hypomobility

Answer

Ligament sprain

Question 4

What is the primary mechanical effect of spinal traction on the vertebral column?

Accepted Answer

Distraction of vertebral segments

Answer

Increased intradiscal pressure

Answer

Compression of apophyseal joints

Answer

Increased vertebral end-plate loading

Question 5

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is primarily indicated for the management of:

Accepted Answer

Peripheral edema and lymphedema

Answer

Chronic musculoskeletal pain

Answer

Joint contractures

Answer

Muscle atrophy

Question 6

Which of the following is an absolute contraindication to spinal traction?

Accepted Answer

Spinal malignancy or vertebral tumor

Answer

Degenerative disc disease

Answer

Herniated nucleus pulposus

Answer

Cervical paraspinal muscle guarding

Question 7

When applying cervical traction for facet joint dysfunction, the recommended cervical spine position is:

Accepted Answer

Neutral or slight extension (0–5 degrees)

Answer

25–30 degrees of flexion

Answer

45 degrees of flexion

Answer

Maximum cervical extension