Effectiveness of physical therapy and rehabilitation programs starting immediately after lumbar disc surgery.

AIM The aim of this randomized study was to compare exercise program to control group regarding pain, back disability, behavioural outcomes, global health measures and back mobility who underwent microdiscectomy operation. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty patients who underwent lumbar microdiscectomy were randomized into exercıse and control groups. After surgery, patients in the exercıse group undertook a 12-week home based exercise program, started immediately postsurgery and concentrated on improving strength and endurance of the back, abdominal muscles, lower extremities and mobility of the spine and hips. Outcome measures were: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Beck Depression scale, lumbar schober, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), return to work (return-to-work status), generic functional status (SF-36). RESULTS Treatment compliance was high in both groups. Surgery improved pain, disability, general health status, lumbar mobility and behavioural status. After the exercise program, the exercise group showed further improvements in these measures at 12 week after surgery. CONCLUSION A 12-week postoperative exercise program starting immediately after surgery can improve pain, disability, and spinal function in patients who have undergone microdiscectomy.