Effectiveness of Piriformis Stretching and Intermittent Lumbar Traction along with Spinal Extension Exercises in Lumbar Disc Herniation: Comparative Study

Abstract

Objective: To compare the effect of Piriformis Stretching and Intermittent Lumbar Traction along with
Spinal Extension Exercises in Lumbar Disc Herniation.
Sample: Total 30 subjects were taken for the study.
Design: Pre-test & post-test design.
Method: 30 subjects fulfilling selection criteria participated in the study. All of them were told about the
procedure of study. All their queries were answered satisfactorily, and informed consent was taken from
them. Intermittent lumbar traction, piriformis stretching, and spinal extension exercises were given to the
participants. In the beginning of treatment, they were given VAS, Roland- Morris Low Back Pain and
Disability Questionnaire and Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. They were asked to fill
these questionnaires. After 1 week protocol of treatment they were again told to fill these outcome measures.
The participants were selected for the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. The patient consent was
taken to be comfortable and relaxed.
Conclusion: Study suggests that Piriformis Stretching along with Spinal Extension Exercises plays a
significant role in reducing pain and disability as compared to traction along with Spinal Extension Exercises.
By using Piriformis Stretching, in a short period of time, patients are able to carry out functions of daily
living smoothly.