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Radiographic analysis of intervertebral separation with a 0 degrees and 30 degrees rope angle using the Saunders
H Todd Vaughn1, Karen M Having, Janet L Rogers
1Department of Health Care Professions, College of Applied Sciences and Arts, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA. tvaughn@siu.edu
Spine
|January 19, 2006
Summary
A 0-degree rope angle with the Saunders Cervical Traction Device (SCTD) significantly increases anterior cervical intervertebral separation (IVS) compared to a 30-degree angle. Posterior IVS also increased, suggesting potential treatment implications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Therapy
- Radiology
Background:
- Limited research exists on the effects of a 0-degree rope angle with the Saunders Cervical Traction Device (SCTD).
- Understanding optimal device parameters is crucial for effective cervical traction therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of 0-degree and 30-degree rope angles on anterior and posterior cervical intervertebral separation (IVS) using the SCTD.
- To determine which angle yields greater cervical spine distraction.
Main Methods:
- Radiographic analysis of cervical IVS in a healthy population using the SCTD.
- Static mechanical cervical traction applied at 0 degrees and 30 degrees rope angles for 2 minutes with 11.34 kg force.
- Lateral cervical spine radiographs taken before and during traction.
Main Results:
- A 0-degree rope angle resulted in a significant increase in anterior IVS across all cervical segments compared to the 30-degree angle.
- Posterior IVS showed a significant increase at 0 degrees, except for C2-C3, with no significant difference between angles.
- Anterior IVS was significantly greater with the 0-degree angle.
Conclusions:
- The 0-degree rope angle appears more effective for achieving anterior cervical IVS with the SCTD in healthy individuals.
- Findings suggest potential clinical implications for cervical traction protocols.
- Further investigation is needed in patient populations with cervical nerve root compression to validate clinical outcomes.
