Dynamic Lumbar Microdiscectomy

In the United States low back pain is a common problem affecting the overall quality of life as being costly due to decreased productivity, sick time, and usage of disability benefits. Lumbar microdiscectomy considered a minimally invasive technique, is most often performed on people experiencing radiating symptoms to the lower extremities. Evidence has shown that exercise and patient education 4-6 weeks post microdiscectomy led to better function than no treatment at all (Beneck et al., 2014). A study using dynamic lumbar stabilization exercises was also found to improve function, quality of life, and decreased disability after a microdiscectomy. (Yilmaz et al, 2003). Evidence based patient education after back surgery has been determined …show more content…
(McGregor et al., 2010).
Hypothesis: Following a microdiscectomy, patients that receive education along with a progressive dynamic stabilization exercise program will report an increase in quality of life, and decrease in perceived disability using self-assessment tools.
Aim2
Progressive dynamic stabilization exercises target core postural muscles, improve spinal stability and mobility.
Hypothesis: After microdiscectomy, patients that participate in progressive dynamic stabilization exercises will report a decrease in pain, increase in function with measurable strength and mobility of trunk, abdomen, and trunk muscles.
Aim3
To establish a short-term and long-term treatment protocol by providing patients with progressive dynamic stabilization exercises and education.
Hypothesis: Compared to education only or dynamic stabilization exercises only, the combination of both will result in short-term and long-term improvement in testing for function, quality of life, pain reduction, perceived disability, and return to work