Which of the following describes the mechanical traction parameters used for the traction subgroup based on the study?

• A. Prone for a maximum of 12 minutes with 40% to 60% of body weight
• B. Prone for a maximum of 24 minutes with 30% to 50% of body weight
• C. Supine for a maximum of 12 minutes with 40% to 60% of body weight
• D. Supine for a maximum of 24 minutes with 30% to 50% of body weight

Answer: (A)

Mechanical traction is defined by how you position the patient, how long you apply traction, and how much force you use relative to body weight. In this study’s traction subgroup, the protocol used a prone position, applied traction for up to 12 minutes, and used a force of 40–60% of body weight.

Prone positioning influences the direction and loading of the traction force, often chosen to bias the load toward the posterior elements and provide a comfortable, tolerable start for lumbar traction. Keeping the session duration to about 12 minutes aligns with practical, tolerable treatment windows that still allow meaningful mechanical effects without provoking excessive muscle guarding. The 40–60% body weight force is a moderate range that typically achieves adequate vertebral distraction and facet joint separation while minimizing risk of irritation or overstretch.

Other parameter setups—such as a supine position, longer durations, or lower or higher force ranges—would represent different clinical approaches or study protocols and were not used here.