Non-operative therapy for prolapsed lumbar intervertebral discs

Objective: To analyze the short-term and long-term effects of non-operative therapy in the treatment of prolapsed lumbar intervertebral discs.Methods: One hundred and sixty-five subjects were randomized in single-blind method into traction group (A), Tuina group (B), and Tuina and exercise group (C); after 2 courses of treatment, the short-term effects were evaluated. Moreover, 102 cases with significant short-term effects were randomized in single-blind method into exercise group (D) and control group (E). The relapse rates in the two groups were survey one year after treatment; and the lumbar functions were assessed respectively six months and twelve months after treatment.Results: Groups B and C had obviously better effects than group A (χ ²=8.359,P<0.01); the relapse rate after one year was strikingly lower in group D than group E (χ ²=12.631,P<0.01).Conclusion: Tuina plus functional exercise is an effective method in the prevention and treatment of prolapsed lumbar intervertebral dises. Translator: XIAO Yuan-chun