Author(s): Dr. Nikita Patel and Dr. Srishti Sharma

Abstract:
Background and purpose: Chronic low back pain is a common problem in the present time. It is commonly associated with altered mechanical tension in the peripheral nerves as tested by straight leg raising or slump tests. The purpose of this study is to compare the two treatment techniques of neural tissue mobilization in subjects with lumbo-sacral radiculopathy. Method: An experimental study with randomised controlled design was conducted, having 30 subjects with lumbosacral radiculopathy which were divided into two equal groups by simple random technique. Before the treatment pre-test measurement was taken using NPRS (numerical pain rating scale) and modified oswestry disability index (MODI) scale. Group A received straight leg raising technique with conventional treatment for 6 times per week (6 sessions) and group B received slump stretching technique with conventional treatment for same. Both the group received treatment for 1 week. At the end of 6 sessions again the outcomes were measured. Statistical analysis: Paired t-test was used for within group analysis of pain and function. Unpaired t-test followed by post was employed for between group comparisons. Result: Overall subjects in both groups improved over the 1 week. But statistically significant improvements were found in slump stretching technique group than straight leg raising group. Conclusion: Slump stretching is better than straight leg raise stretching in improving pain and function in lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Pages: 91-95  |  1148 Views  212 Downloads