Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Agents in Patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of physiotherapy agents in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Materials and Methods: A total of 41 patients, diagnosed with LSS clinically and radiologically, were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups. In Group 1 (n=22), the patients underwent a physical therapy program with hot pack, ultrasound, interference current therapy and an exercise therapy 5 days per week for three weeks. In Group 2 (n=19), the patients were accepted as control group and received only exercise therapy. The patients were evaluated with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index, Short Form-36 and Beck Depression Inventory. Pain-free walking time (neurogenic claudication time) was measured during a treadmill test. Results: After the therapy, both groups showed statistically significant improvement in pain (except resting VAS in group 2), neurogenic claudication time, disability, depression, and in some parameters of quality of life. The improvement in VAS scores and some parameters of quality of life (physical functioning, physical roles, pain, general health) in group 1 were better than the control group. Conclusion: In patients with LSS, physical agents are effective after a short-term therapy and they can be considered as an important treatment choice for these patients. Turk J Phys Med Rehab 2009;55:141-6.