Comparison Between the Effects of Manual Traction and Opening Techniques in Cervical Radiculopathy

JRCRS. 2018; 6(1): 24-28

Abstract

Background: Cervical radiculopathy is a common type of neck pain, it causes limitation of movement and disability. Manual therapy techniques and exercise therapy are common management of cervical radiculopathy.

Objective: To compare the effects of manual traction and opening techniques on pain, limitation of movement and disability in cervical patient with cervical radiculopathy

Methodology: This randomized controlled trail was carried out at Quaid-e-Azam International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan from January, 01, 2016 to June, 30, 2016.40 sedentary individuals of both gender, aged 30 to 40 years with radicular pain in upper extremity. All the study participants were randomly placed in group A treated with manual traction and segmental mobilization and group B treated with opening technique and cervical segmental mobilization for 3 weeks at 3 sessions per week. Outcome measures were pain, range of motion and Neck Disability Index assessed and documented at baseline and completion of 3 weeks intervention.

Results: Group of patients treated with manual traction with segmental mobilization more significantly improved pain (2.3 ± 0.92), NDI (35.55 ± 11.9), MMT extension (4.25 ± 0.26), MMT flexion (4.25 ± 0.26) and ROM (left rotation 14.3±1.49, right rotation 14.4 ± 1.47, left side flexion 14.6 ± 1.90, right side flexion14.5 ± 1.85, extension 18.4 ± 2.74, flexion 3.95 ± 0.69) as compared to the group of patients treated with opening techniques with segmental mobilization, postural education and hot packs. (Pain: pre= 7.1 ± 1.17, Post 2.25 ± 1.12),(NDI: Pre 56.3 ± 17.2, Post 30.6 ± 14.7).

Conclusion: It is concluded that both treatments improved pain, disability and cervical range of motion but manual traction and segmental mobilization are more effective to reduce pain and disability.

Keywords: Cervical radiculopathy, mobilization, traction, opening technique