Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is the most likely reason for a patient with cervical radiculopathy reporting an immediate decrease in pain following manual traction?

1. Increased blood flow to the affected area

2. Widening of the intervertebral foramen

3. Reduction of inflammation in the nerve root

4. Strengthening the surrounding musculature

The correct answer is: Widening of the intervertebral foramen

The most plausible reason for a patient with cervical radiculopathy experiencing an immediate decrease in pain following manual traction is the widening of the intervertebral foramen. Cervical radiculopathy often involves compression or irritation of nerve roots, which can cause pain, weakness, or sensory changes along the path of the nerve. When manual traction is applied, it produces a separation of the vertebrae, which can increase the space in the intervertebral foramen. This widening can relieve pressure on the nerve roots, thereby reducing pain and improving mobility. The immediate relief in pain is attributed to this biomechanical effect of traction, which directly addresses the underlying issue of nerve root compression. While increased blood flow, reduction of inflammation, and strengthening of surrounding musculature may have significance in treatment over time, they are less likely to result in the rapid and noticeable pain relief that manual traction provides in the acute setting of cervical radiculopathy. The widening of the intervertebral foramen is the most direct mechanism by which traction alleviates pain.