Role of balance in patients with lumbar root compression

Assessment of sensorimotor status & balance are helpful in establishment of successful rehabilitation programs. Balance is a complex process that involves the integrated activity of sensory and motor systems. In this essence,lumbar radiculopathy could possibly cause balance disturbances that make these patients more prone to risk for fall. This was the hypothesis addressed in this work, where 45 patients with lumbar root compression were evaluated and examined for efficacy of balance control. Patients with lumbar radiculopathy demonstrated significant impairment in comparison to a matched control group of isometric strength of lower limbs muscles & vibration sense reflecting dysfunction of sensorimotor status. Balance examination by Berg scale & Computerized Dynamic Posturography tests supported the earlier hypothesis. Considering these data, implementation of specific vestibular and balance rehab therapy was tested versus classic muscle exercises. Vestibular & balance rehab programs combined with traditional muscle strengthening exercises for lumbar root compression patients had an additive & beneficial effects to minimize their disabilities and return to normal daily activities.