The Lumbosacral Spine: Emphasizing Conservative Management

Abstract

Dr. Williams describes his use of flexion exercises and bracing in the nonoperative treatment of lumbosacral disorders. He stresses his concept of degenerative disc disease and explains his interpretation of conservative treatment. The book covers the lumbosacral spine in detail. Following introductory sections on the normal anatomy and physiology, the author presents the pathology, diagnosis, and clinical management of low back disorders. Then he reviews the evolution and natural history of degenerative disc disease and places the herniated nucleus pulposus into proper perspective as only one of many facets of lumbosacral disease. Dr. Williams presents his flexion exercises in a didactic manner, discussing the rationale, indications, and contraindications for each exercise, and outlining their use in the management of acute and chronic low back disorders. Instruction sheets, which may be reproduced and distributed to patients, are included at the back of the book. Numerous line drawings, clinical photographs, and roentgenograms