IMPACT OF MCKENZIE METHOD WITH CONVENTIONAL THERAPY ON LUMBAR RADICULOPATHY: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Lower back pain is a prevalent and incapacitating global disorder, often attributed to factors such as prolonged standing, excess weight, and heavy lifting. Radiculopathy, a condition leading to lower back pain radiating to the lower extremities, is a common manifestation. This case study focuses on a 46-year-old businesswoman presenting with specific lower back discomfort and pain in her left lower extremity during certain movements. She reported experiencing severe lower back pain a month ago after an 8-hour standing period, with a Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) score of 8 and an Oswestry Disability Index score of 29, indicating a significant impact on her overall life. The McKenzie method, a prescribed exercise approach for spine management, was employed for diagnosis and treatment. This case study illustrates the clinical presentation, causes, diagnosis, radiological assessment, and management of lumbar radiculopathy using the McKenzie technique and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). The study spanned three weeks with three sessions per week, including reassessment after each week. The findings suggest that the McKenzie technique combined with TENS had a substantial positive impact in alleviating lumbar radiculopathy. Keywords: Lumbar radiculopathy, McKenzie, TENS, low back pain, lumbar spine