The positive effects of massage therapy after decompression and fusion surgery of the lumbar spine: a case study.

BACKGROUND:

Spinal fusion and decompression surgery of the lumbar spine are common procedures for problems such as disc herniation's.

PURPOSE:

The objective of this study is to determine if massage therapy can beneficially treat pain and dysfunction associated with lumbar spinal decompression and fusion surgery.

PARTICIPANTS:

Client is a 47-year-old female who underwent spinal decompression and fusion surgery of L4/L5 due to chronic disc herniation symptoms.

RESULTS:

Hamstring length improved (in degrees of extension) from pretreatment measurements in the right leg of 40° and left leg 65° to post-treatment measurement at the final visit, when the results were right 50° and left 70°. The Oswestry Disability Index improved 14%, from 50% to 36% disability. Roland-Morris Disability decreased 1 point, from 3/24 to 2/24. The VAS pain score decreased by 2 points after most treatments, and for three of the seven treatments, client had a post-treatment score of 0/10.

CONCLUSIONS:

Massage for pain had short-term effects. Massage therapy seemed to lengthen the hamstrings bilaterally. Massage therapy does appear to have positive effects in the reduction of disability. This study is beneficial for understanding the relationship between massage therapy and clients who have undergone spinal decompression and fusion. Further research is warranted.

To view the entire case study go to: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23429839

Delicious Mediterranean Tuna Salad

  

One of my favorites! Enjoy! Dr. T

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

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Ingredients:

·         4 (6 ounce) cans albacore tuna, drained well

·         1 (14 ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained

·         1/2 cup chopped red bell or piquillo peppers

·         3/4 cup sliced Greek olives

·         1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

·         1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

·         1/4 cup chopped basil

·         2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

·         1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

·         1 cup mayonnaise

·         Juice of 1 lemon juice

·         Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

·         3 T olive oil