Context: Lumbar disc prolapse is one of the most common spinal pathologies, which can be associated with debilitating pain and
neurological dysfunction. Evidence suggests that patients with disc prolapse and low back pain must be taught proper body mechanics to
move safely and with the least strain possible on their back.
Aim: Evaluate the effect of a body mechanics training program on low back pain and disability among patients with lumbar disc prolapse.
Methods: To attain the objectives of this study, a quasi-experimental research design involving a study group and a control group was
employed. This study was conducted in the neurosurgery department and neurosurgery outpatient clinic at Benha University Hospital on a
purposive sample of patients diagnosed with lumbar disc prolapse. The study used a structured interviewing questionnaire for patients, a
visual analog pain scale, and an Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire.
Results: Showed that the total mean knowledge score for the study and control group was 33.500±3.862 and 8.140±6.402, respectively,
after one-month post-program implementation, with a statistically significant difference between both groups. Also, 75% of the study group
had mild pain, and 58% of the control group had moderate pain post-program implementation, with statistically significant differences
between the study and control group post-program, where p=0.000. Regarding functional disability scores among study and control groups
pre- and one month after program implementation. It shows that (67% and 63%) of the study and control groups had severe disability pre
program implementation. In contrast, post-program implementation, 65% of the study group had moderate disability, compared to 13% of
the controls.
Conclusion: Implementing a body mechanics training program for patients with lumbar disc prolapse improved knowledge, reduced pain
severity, and reduced disability among the study group compared to the control group. An illustrated handbook on applying proper body
techniques while engaging in everyday tasks should be available for all patients with lumber disc prolapse. |
