What is an effective hold/relax time for joint distraction in the lumbar spine?

The effective hold/relax time for joint distraction in the lumbar spine is commonly recognized as 15 seconds for both the hold and relax phases. This duration allows for adequate time for the muscles around the joint to relax and for the joint itself to experience the benefits of the distraction technique. The 15-second interval strikes a good balance between effectiveness and safety, facilitating improved mobility and decreased muscle guarding without excessive fatigue.

Longer hold times, such as 20 seconds, while they may be beneficial in certain contexts, risk causing discomfort or increased tension in the muscles surrounding the joint, which can counteract the purpose of the distraction. Similarly, shorter intervals like 5 or 10 seconds may not provide sufficient time for the neuromuscular response necessary to achieve the desired effect in joint distraction techniques.

Thus, the choice of 15 seconds for both holding and relaxing is grounded in clinical practice, aligning with the physiological response of the tissues involved to induce relaxation and improve joint mobility effectively.