Treatment of a Case of Subacute Lumbar Compartment Syndrome Using the Graston Technique
Received 22 October 2003; received in revised form 22 November 2004
Objective
To discuss subacute lumbar compartment syndrome and its treatment using a soft tissue mobilization technique.
Clinical Features
A patient presented with low back pain related to exercise combined with prolonged flexion posture. The symptoms were relieved with rest and lumbar extension. The patient had restrictive lumbar fascia in flexion and rotation and no neurological deficits.
Intervention and Outcome
The restrictive lumbar posterior fascial layers and adjoining restrictive fascia (thoracic, gluteal, hamstring) were treated with a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization called the Graston technique. Restoration of fascial extensibility and resolution of the complaint occurred after 6 treatment visits.
Conclusions
The posterior spinal fascial compartments may be responsible for intermittent lower back pain. Functional clinical tests can be employed to determine whether the involved fascia is abnormally restrictive. Treatment directed at the restrictive fascia using this soft tissue technique may result in improved fascial functional testing and reduction of symptoms.
aPrivate practice of Chiropractic, Norwalk, Conn; Postgraduate faculty, Cleveland Chiropractic College, National University of Health Sciences
bDirector of Research, Assistant Professor, Cleveland Chiropractic College, Kansas City, Mo
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ABSTRACT