Physical therapy can play an important role in helping patients recover after lumbar microdiscectomy, a common type of back surgery used to treat painful herniated discs. A recent study found that patients who received physical therapist-guided exercise, along with education about caring for their back after surgery, experienced less pain, better physical function, and an improved overall quality of life.
The study followed 98 participants who were randomly placed into one of two groups. One group attended a one-hour education session that provided guidance on post-surgical back care. The second group received the same education, but also participated in a 12-week exercise program led by a physical therapist. These patients exercised three times per week, focusing on strength and endurance training for the back, trunk, and lower body. The program was gradually adjusted based on each person’s ability and progress.
Participants were evaluated before and after the intervention using a survey that measured quality of life, pain, physical function, and related factors. The results showed that the group receiving both education and physical therapist-directed exercise made greater improvements than the group receiving education alone.
If you have recently had back surgery, a personalized physical therapy program may help support your recovery, reduce pain, and improve your ability to return to daily activities. Contact us today to learn how we can create a specialized plan to help you heal safely and effectively.
Source:
Beneck G, Popovich J, Selkowitz D, et al. Intensive, progressive exercise improves quality of life following lumbar microdiskectomy: a randomized controlled trial. Clinical Rehabilitation, 2014; 28 (9): 892-901.
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