Study protocol for effects of prone spinal decompression therapy in addition to Mckenzie exercises versus Mckenzie exercises only on pain and functional disability in lumbar radiculopathy–A randomized clinical trial
P. Rachana, P. Madhuripu, M Premkumar, Thrishala NoronhaBACKGROUND:
Lumbar radiculopathy, which affects both men and women equally, are associated with symptoms of back and leg pain that significantly impairs body functioning, walking ability, and quality of life. Therefore, determining the optimal treatment protocol is necessary. The objective of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of prone spinal decompression therapy (SDT) combined with McKenzie exercises compared with McKenzie exercises alone on pain and functional disability in patients diagnosed with lumbar radiculopathy.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A single-blinded randomized clinical trial will be conducted using simple randomization at university physiotherapy department. According to sample size calculation, we aim to recruit 44 participants aged between 25 and 55 years with lumbar radiculopathy. Participants will be allocated using computer generated method and will be randomized into 2 groups: Group A (SDT + McKenzie) and Group B (McKenzie only) and each session will be lasted for 20–30 min. Outcome measures include visual analogue scale, Roland Morris disability questionnaire, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Short Form-36, and patient satisfaction outcome. Global rating of change will be assessed post intervention. All outcomes measured will be evaluated at baseline, after 4 weeks (post intervention) and after week 12 (follow up).
RESULTS:
Based on the normality of the, parametric and nonparametric will be applied. ANOVA with Bonferroni
CONCLUSION:
If the findings support the combined approach, it may provide a superior conservative treatment option for lumbar radiculopathy.