The effect of non-surgical spinal decompression on the paraspinal muscles of persons with lumbar disc herniation

Abstract

Objective To explore the effect of non-surgical spinal decompression (SDS) on the surface electromyogram signals from the paraspinal muscles of patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods Twelve patients diagnosed with L4-5 LDH were recruited and randomly divided into an SDS group and a control group, each of 6 according to their order of admission. The SDS group received spinal decompression, while the control group was given lumbar traction. The average surface electromyogram signals (AEMGs) were recorded before, during and after the treatment. Results Before the treatment, the AEMG values collected from the left and right erector spinae and multifidus of the SDS group were already significantly different from those of the control group. During the treatment, the AEMG values collected from the right erector spinae and multifidus of the SDS group remained significantly different from those of the control group. After the treatment, the AEMG values were still significantly different. Conclusions SDS relieves tension and fatigue of the paraspinal muscles better than lumbar traction. Key words: Spinal decompression; Lumbar discs; Hernia; Paraspinal muscles; Surface electromyography