Innovative seated vertical lumbar traction allows simultaneous computer work while inducing spinal height changes...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Ergonomics
• Spinal Health

Background:

• Lumbar intervertebral disc height loss is linked to spinal height change (SHC) and low back pain (LBP).
• Current non-invasive methods for disc height loss require lying down, which is incompatible with computer work.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and introduce a safe vertical traction (VT) prototype and dosage for inducing and measuring SHC.
• To explore prototype comfort and low back pain (LBP) ratings as secondary aims.

Main Methods:

• Forty-one participants underwent stadiometry for pre- and post-intervention SHC measurements.
• Interventions included seated VT (35% body weight removed), supine lying (SL), and sitting without VT (SIT).
• Pain ratings and VT prototype comfort were assessed.

Main Results:

• SHC increased significantly with VT (3.9 ± 3.4 mm) and SL (4.3 ± 3.1 mm) compared to SIT (1.7 ± 3.4 mm).
• Both VT and SL interventions led to decreased LBP ratings, unlike SIT.
• VT demonstrated significant increases in SHC compared to SIT.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent seated VT is a viable ergonomic alternative for computer workers experiencing LBP.
• This method effectively increases SHC, comparable to lying down, without disrupting workflow.
• VT shows promise for postural relief and improving spinal health during prolonged sitting.