The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy

The Korean Society of Physical Therapy (대한물리치료학회)
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The Spontaneous Regression of Lumbar Disc Herniation: 3 Cases Report

요추간판 탈출의 자연적 축소(3례 증례보고)

  • Kwon, Won-An (Dept. of Physical Therapy, KimJun's Orthopaedic & Pain Clinic) ;
  • Kim, Han-Soo (Dept. of Occupational Therapy, Daegu Health College)
  • 권원안 (김준정형외과.제통의원 물리치료실) ;
  • 김한수 (대구보건대학 작업치료과)
  • Published : 2008.09.25
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Abstract

Purpose: The majority of patients with radiculopathy caused by a herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) heal spontaneously without surgery. The aim of this report is to describe the spontaneous regression of lumbar disc herniation and the results of clinical follow-up. Methods: Three patients with radiating low back pain presented with an extruded intervertebral disc on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We performed follow-up with conservative treatment (epidural injection, medication, physical therapy, exercise) and clinical assessments on the 6th, 10th and 22nd months. Results: The extruded intervertebral disc almost complete regressed, and correlated with clinical improvement and follow-up MRI. Conclusion: Conservative treatment can be an effective approach for a herniated lumbar discs if no neurological deficits are present.

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