What is the most appropriate duration of mechanical traction treatment for the lumbar spine if 25% of the patient's body weight is used?

The most appropriate duration of mechanical traction treatment for the lumbar spine when using 25% of the patient's body weight is 25 minutes. This duration is commonly recommended because it allows sufficient time for the traction to effectively reduce intradiscal pressure, decrease muscle guarding, and relieve nerve root compression.

Typically, a traction session lasting around 15 to 30 minutes is considered effective for the lumbar spine. This timeframe helps achieve both the therapeutic effects and patient comfort. In practice, traction protocols often suggest starting at around 20 to 30 minutes for more significant effects without overloading the patient.

Shorter durations, such as 5 or 10 minutes, may not provide adequate time for the tissues to respond to the mechanical forces applied. Longer sessions, like 40 minutes, risk causing muscle fatigue or discomfort without providing additional clinical benefit. Therefore, 25 minutes is established as an optimal duration within the recommended range for effective treatment.