To target L5-S1 during traction, the hips should be flexed to approximately which range?

To target L5-S1 during traction, the hips should be flexed to approximately which range?

• A. 0-15 degrees
• B. 60-75 degrees
• C. 75-90 degrees
• D. 45-60 degrees

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that the level of the spine that traction targets changes with how much the hips are flexed in the supine position. When the hips are flexed in a moderate range—about 45 to 60 degrees—the traction line aligns most effectively with the lumbosacral junction, increasing distraction at L5–S1. Too little hip flexion (0–15 degrees) tends to shift the force toward higher lumbar levels, while extreme hip flexion (75–90 degrees) can alter the line of pull and reduce targeted effect at L5–S1 or cause other issues. Therefore, targeting L5–S1 during traction is best achieved with hip flexion around 45–60 degrees.

The key idea is that the level of the spine that traction targets changes with how much the hips are flexed in the supine position. When the hips are flexed in a moderate range—about 45 to 60 degrees—the traction line aligns most effectively with the lumbosacral junction, increasing distraction at L5–S1. Too little hip flexion (0–15 degrees) tends to shift the force toward higher lumbar levels, while extreme hip flexion (75–90 degrees) can alter the line of pull and reduce targeted effect at L5–S1 or cause other issues. Therefore, targeting L5–S1 during traction is best achieved with hip flexion around 45–60 degrees.