The effect of repeated back extension exercise on H-reflex in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy

Abstract

Background:

A repeated back extension exercises (RBEE) from prone position have been widely prescribed for patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy (LSR) and are reported to alter the intensity and distribution of radicular symptoms. This change in symptoms could indicate decompression/compression effect of RBEE on the compromised nerve root.

Purpose:

to evaluate the effect of RBEE from prone position on soleus H-reflex of patients with LSR.

Patients and method:

nineteen male and 11 female patients (38 ± 8.4 years) with confirmed chronic unilateral LSR participated in the study. All patients performed 30 repetitions of RBEE from prone position. The soleus H-reflex was measured before and after the RBEE. The H-reflex was elicited by electrical stimulation of the tibial nerve on the poplitial fossa of both legs. The non-involved leg of the patient was used as a control. Subjective pain intensity and sit-to-stand performance were also measured before and after RBEE using numerical pain rating scale and a stopwatch respectively.

Results:

The H-reflex in the involved leg, pain intensity and the sit-to-stand test did not significantly improve after the RBEE (p < 0.43 – < 0.82).

Conclusion:

Single session of 30 repetitions of RBEE is not enough to improve the neurophysiology of the compromised nerve root, pain intensity and sit-to-stand performance of patients with chronic LSR.