PAM Mechanical Modalities & Traction Therapy 3

Question 1

The typical starting force for lumbar mechanical traction is:

Accepted Answer

25–30% of body weight

Answer

Starting lumbar traction at 25–30% of body weight allows patient acclimation before progressively increasing to the therapeutic level required for vertebral separation.

Question 2

What is the effect of spinal traction on intradiscal pressure?

Accepted Answer

Decreases intradiscal pressure

Answer

Spinal traction decreases intradiscal pressure by distracting the vertebral bodies, which may facilitate retraction of herniated disc material.

Question 3

Mechanical traction is MOST appropriately indicated for which diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Cervical radiculopathy from disc herniation

Answer

Cervical radiculopathy from disc herniation is a primary indication for traction because distraction can directly reduce nerve root compression.

Question 4

The primary physiological benefit of aquatic (pool) traction compared to land-based traction is:

Accepted Answer

Buoyancy reduces gravitational compressive load on the spine

Answer

Buoyancy in water counteracts gravitational compressive forces on the spine, enabling effective vertebral distraction with considerably lower applied traction forces.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a physiological effect of spinal traction?

Accepted Answer

Increased intradiscal pressure

Answer

Traction decreases intradiscal pressure; increased intradiscal pressure is the opposite of what occurs and would worsen disc-related symptoms.

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

PAM Mechanical Modalities & Traction Therapy 3