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Journal List > J Chiropr Med > v.4(3); Fall 2005

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J Chiropr Med. 2005 Fall; 4(3): 162–176.
Published online 2005. doi: 10.1016/S0899-3467(07)60125-6.
PMCID: PMC2647044
Copyright © 2005 National University of Health Sciences
Conservative management of a patient with lumbar disc disease: averting lumbar disc surgery
James E. Greathouse, Jr.a*
aPrivate practice
James E. Greathouse, Jr.: makg2/at/netzero.net
*Address correspondence to: Dr. James E. Greathouse Jr., 1589 S. Wickham Rd., W. Melbourne, FL, 32904, Tel: 321 725-6314, Fax: 321 725-4047 Email: makg2/at/netzero.net
Received March 31, 2004; Revised March 19, 2005.
This document may be redistributed and reused, subject to certain conditions.
Abstract
Objective
To illustrate multifaceted clinical components often present with lumbar disc herniation that require concomitant resolution before optimal conservative case management can be achieved.
Clinical Features
A 33-year-old male with insidious low back pain and a gradual onset of lower extremity symptoms had a declining physical activity lifestyle, diminished fitness level, and weight gain over a 4-year period. Symptoms progressively worsened over a two-year period. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a disc herniation with neurological compromise and surgical intervention was medically recommended.
Intervention and Outcome
Management consisted of patient education, acute inflammation control, closed disc reduction, remedial therapeutic (passive joint movement) care directed at preservation and improvement of joint and soft tissue mobility, low tech physical capacity evaluation and individualized rehabilitation training for home based care exercise. Patient compliance was ultimately achieved with a positive long-term outcome.
Conclusion
This case illustrates common clinical components of care associated with disc herniation case management, the potential of conservative care, and the benefits of combining manual therapy and rehabilitative exercise.
Key Indexing Terms: Low back pain, Intervertebral Disk Displacement, Chiropractic, Rehabilitation
Footnotes
Sources of support: No funds were received for the preparation of this manuscript.
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