Date of Award

2010

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Schawnn Decker

Keywords

Low Back Pain -- therapy; Low Back Pain -- rehabilitation; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this case study is to describe the conservative management of a male patient with chronic low back pain. This report will provide an insight to the benefits of an individualized treatment program combining therapeutic exercises, the McKenzie Method along with a Lumbar Extension MedX strengthening program.

Case Description: This case study describes the treatment of a 34 year old male computer programmer suffering from low back pain.

Intervention: The patient was treated using directional preference~ segmental stabilization, lumbar extension MedX strengthening, and other physiotherapy exercises. He received treatment twice a week for three weeks and three times the final week of his care, for a total of nine visits. He was given a home exercise program from the first day, which was added to throughout his treatment.

Outcomes: The patient showed improvement in self rated pain scale, amount of time he could sit with no pain, exercise capabilities, lumbar strength, lumbar range of motion and function (Oswestry 1/34). These outcomes proved that treatment for this patient was effective.

Discussion: Some form of low back pain is said to affect 60-80% of people in the US. This case report suggests that a comprehensive physical therapy spinal rehabilitation program significantly improve symptoms and function associated with low back pain.

Download
COinS