Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Renee Mabey

Keywords

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

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Lumbar radiculopathy is one of the most common orthopedic conditions. This occurs when there is damage to a nerve root in the area that it exits the spinal cord. This can be caused from a disc herniation bone spurs, trauma, or a mechanical stretching event. There is not consistent evidence in current literature regarding rehabilitation interventions for this condition.

Case Description. This case report describes a 62-year-old female presenting to physical therapy with lumbar radiculopathy symptoms. She had multiple comorbidities as well as a scheduled total knee replacement surgery. Physical therapy interventions for this patient included manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education.

Outcomes. The patient responded well to treatment and significantly improved following two weeks of physical therapy rehabilitation. She reported minimal pain that was centralized to the low back. She demonstrated an increase in lumbar range of motion, strength, and mobility.

Discussion. This patient demonstrated a significant improvement in a short period of time. This case report may suggest intervention strategies for future research regarding physical therapy and lumbar radiculopathy.

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