The Efficacy of Spinal Decompression via DRX3000 Combined with a Spinal Mobilization and a Lumbar Stabilization Exercise Program for Patients with Discogenic Low Back Pain

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of motorized spinal decompression using the DRX3000 system (Axiom Worldwide, Tampa, FL, USA) combined with spinal mobilization as well as lumbar stabilization exercises on patients with discogenic low back pain (LBP). [Subjects] A total of 30 adults with discogenic LBP (mean age, 34.06+/-6.41 years; age range, 28-48 years; 14 males, 16 females) volunteered to participate in this study. [Methods] A 4-week course of spinal decompression treatment combined with motorized flexion-distraction mobilization and lumbar stabilization exercises were administered to the participants for 6 days per week for the first two weeks, and four times per week for two additional weeks. The entire treatment consisted of 20 visits over a 4-week period. Comparisons of changes in the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and straight leg raise (SLR) test at pre-intervention, after 10 treatment sessions, and at discharge (after 20 treatment sessions) were analyzed. [Results] There were significant improvements in the outcome measures of ODI score and SLR test after 10 and 20 sessions of spinal decompression treatment combined with spinal mobilization and lumbar stabilization exercises as compared with the pre-intervention. [Conclusion] Spinal decompression treatment combined with spinal mobilization and lumbar stabilization exercises significantly improved the clinical outcome measures of ODI score and SLR test in patients with LBP secondary to intervertebral disc herniation.