Lumbar Traction in Low Back Pain: The Experience of Lithuanian Physiotherapists
Abstract
Background. Lumbar traction is widely discussed in international literature; however, little is known about its use among physiotherapists in Lithuania. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, application practices, and influencing factors associated with lumbar traction use among Lithuanian physiotherapists.
Aim. To evaluate the prevalence, application practices, and influencing factors associated with lumbar traction use among Lithuanian physiotherapists.
Methods. A mixed-methods approach was used, including an analysis of scientific literature and a quantitative questionnaire survey of practicing physiotherapists in Lithuania. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise responses, associations between categorical variables were tested using the Chi-Squared Test, and effect sizes were quantified using Cramér’s V.
Results. The historical and clinical analysis confirmed that lumbar traction has evolved from primitive spinal stretching techniques into a modern therapeutic method used to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and decrease mechanical pressure on affected tissues. Survey data showed that 12% of Lithuanian physiotherapists use lumbar traction. Education exhibited the strongest association with lumbar traction use (Cramér’s V = 0.316), indicating a moderate effect size. However, no statistically significant associations were identified. Lithuanian physiotherapists most frequently apply manual traction in the supine position, commonly selecting low traction forces (20–30% of body weight). Compared with international practice, lumbar traction is used less frequently in Lithuania, though similarities exist in preferred techniques and the influence of education on clinical decision-making.
Conclusions. Lumbar traction remains a recognised treatment modality for low back pain, though its clinical uptake in Lithuania is limited. Application patterns indicate a preference for manual, low-force traction, and education appears to play an important role in determining its use. Further research with larger samples is needed to clarify influencing factors and align national practice with international trends.
Keywords: Lumbar traction; physiotherapy; low back pain; spinal rehabilitation; clinical practice
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