A Novel And Pragmatic Protocol For The Regression Of Lumbar Disc Pathologies: JRCRS-2020-04-017

Background: Disc pathologies constitute the major component of the low back pain spectrum. The effects of novel and pragmatic interventions are not known. Objective: To explore the effects of a novel and pragmatic set of treatment protocols for the management of the Lumbar disc pathologies Methodology: This single group quasi-experimental design recruited 16 patients  of a mean(±SD) age of 38.63 (±11.20) years and mostly males (n=14), of disc pathology of left of 50%, right 37% and both side 13 %- at HHIRS Mansehra. The participants were screened against the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A consecutive sampling technique was used. Visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain at rest and mobility, Straight leg raise angle (SLR) and Ronald Morris Disability (RMD) were the outcomes measuring tools. Keramat’s novel and pragmatic techniques were the main interventions. Results: Significant (p<0.05) and clinically meaningful profound improvement was observed for improvement in mean(±SD)  in  VAS at rest of 81(±19.93) mm, VAS at mobility of 60.31 (±27.37) mm, RMD of 35 (±12.54) and SLR of 32.27(±19.27), using a paired t-test.  Almost all (n=14) the participants became asymptomatic with respect to pain at rest after the first session. Their constant pain became intermittent pain with mobility and in the standing position. Loss of sleep at night improved in total of 8/8 participants. RMD scores showed steady improvement over the period. Conclusion: The novel techniques are effective in improving the pain at rest in lumbar disc prolapse cases and moderately effectively in improving the disability. However, the results cannot be generalized due to the absence of a control group. Keyword: Lumbar Disc Regression, Manual Therapy, Novel Techniques, Physiotherapy