Effect of lumbar stabilization versus mckenzie exercises on pain and functional disability in patients with post laminectomy syndrome: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Although not well known, post-laminectomy syndrome (PLS) is an important cause of chronic back pain, which may lead to decreased quality of life, disability and psychological disorders. The purpose: This study was conducted to determine and compare between the effectiveness of lumbar stabilization and McKenzie exercises on intensity of pain and disability in patients with PLS. Methods: Forty five patients with PLS were enrolled in this study and equally divided into three groups: Group (A) received conventional physical therapy program (Ultrasound, TENS and Moist Heat), group (B) received lumbar (core) stabilization exercises and group (C) received McKenzie exercise. Training program was three sessions per week for four weeks. Intensity of pain was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and disability was assessed using the Oswestry disability Questionnaire. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in the mean values of score of pain and Oswestry disability Questionnaire in three groups (p<0.05) post treatment. In the comparison among groups, core stabilization exercise group showed significantly greater reduction of pain and functional disability compared with McKenzie group and conventional therapy group (p<0.05) post treatment. Conclusion: Core stabilization exercise is more effective than McKenzie in reducing pain and disability in patients with PLS.