Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Schawnn Decker

Keywords

Low Back Pain -- therapy; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Acute low back pain is one of the most common and expensive reasons for adults to see a family physician and is commonly treated by physical therapists. Although most patients recover quickly with minimal treatment, patient education and exercises directed by a physical therapist may decrease recurrent pain and need for health care services. The purpose of this case study is to determine if the McKenzie Method is effective treatment for acute low back pain in the medical workforce using evidence based practice.

Case Description: Patient was a 37-year-old Caucasian female who worked as a registered nurse in a rural hospital. She experienced acute low back pain injury when attempting to transfer a patient. Patient stated there was an audible "pop," in her back at time of injury. Patient was prescribed Flexeril and Percocet in the emergency department and was experiencing high levels of pain with radiating symptoms from her right low back into her right foot.

Outcomes: The patient responded well to initial treatment. Patient was able to meet her short term and long-term goals while using the McKenzie Method with only 4 treatment sessions.

Discussion: Overall, the patient responded well to the McKenzie treatment approach. It seems that further research needs to be completed on the efficacy of McKenzie treatment despite the positive outcomes in this case study. Limitations exist due to the lack of functional assessment application.

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