I do wonder how many sceptics would privately or publicly call for double blind randomised controlled studies before experimenting with such “controversial” therapy, or should we say enjoyment. Sometimes common sense needs to prevail, kind of like this case study on using magnetic therapy for faster recovery with soft tissue injuries and mirror therapy. When a therapy is simple, inexpensive, no risk and demonstrates obvious benefits what motivates practitioners to ignore or even oppose it?
Catherine is a 39 yr old business consultant who injured her back when emptying the dishwasher in 2008. She has suffered 3 years of persistent right low back and right leg pain. The intensity of her pain was commonly 7/10 NRS and worsened by bending, sitting, home activities and gardening.
Catherine was able to flex to the knees only, when supporting her trunk weight with her hands. She had impulse pain but no neurological signs. Her range of lumbar extension was 50%. She was acutely tender to palpate over the low lumbar spine. Straight leg raise were bilaterally 80 degrees with no sensitisation.
Chiropractic manipulation and physiotherapy was of no lasting benefit. She was not considered a surgical candidate by her medical team.
Maria is a 47 year old, 178 cm tall, primary school teacher. She is fit and healthy, exercising regularly with walking and kayaking.
On Jan 10th 2012 Maria had an acute flare low back radiating bilaterally down the posterior of her legs as far as the heals. Maria was unable to sit and struggled to do the normal activities of daily living with pain levels at 7/10 NRS. Maria admitted to some ongoing low back pain issues over the 2 years, but this tended to be local and settled without needing any medical intervention.
Objective Examination
Maria had grossly restricted lumbar flexion, was acutely tender to palpate the low lumbar spine and had bilateral restriction of SLR to 60 degrees, which was positive to dorsiflexion sensitisation. Reflexes and muscle strength were normal.
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