The efficacy of instrument-assisted soft tisue mobilization at lumbar region disc herniations

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization in patients with lomber region disc herniation. 60 patients with lumbar disc herniation between the ages of 30-65 were included in the study. Following the evaluation, the patients were divided into two groups by closed envelope method; control group (n=30) and experimental group (n=30). In both groups, 4 weeks (20 sessions) hot pack (hotpack), conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), therapeutic physical therapy program with therapeutic ultrasound applications were performed. In addition to this program, Instrumental Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) was applied to the experimental group in 12 sessions of 3 times a week. This technique was performed by using stainless steel tools of different sizes and shapes. IASTM treatment was performed (including SWEEP-FAN-BRUSH- SWEEP technique, 45° angle with the skin, by 8-10 repetitions) for the ilicostalis lumborum, priformis, gluteus medius, erector spines, quadratus lumborum muscles, superficial and deep fascia. Depression levels of the patients were evaluated with Beck Depression Scale, before the treatment and after 4 weeks pain severity, VAS pain scale, functional status with Oswestry Scale, quality of life with Short Form-36 (SF- 36) and normal range of motion with goniometer. The results were analyzed by using SPSS v.20 program. In all analyzes, the significance ratio was accepted as p <0.05. At the end of the four-week treatment program, significant improvements were observed in VAS levels, normal joint movements (flexion, extension, right-left lateral flexion, rotation) in both groups (p <0.05). Oswestry and Beck Depression Scale scores showed significant improvement merely in the experimental group compared to the control group (p <0.05). There was no significant difference in VAS values, normal joint motion and Oswestry scale while there was no notable difference in SF-36 and Beck Depression Scale. As a result of the study, it was concluded that IASTM is a more effective method on normal range of motion and functionality in comparison with traditional physiotherapy program in patients with lumbar disc herniation and it can be used as an alternative method in patients during the physiotherapy and rehabilitation program if needed.