Volume : 11, Issue : 2, FEB 2025

EARLY INTERVENTION PHYSIOTHERAPY VERSUS CONVENTIONAL MANAGEMENT IN LUMBAR RADICULAR SYNDROME: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL PROTOCOL

AMIT PUROHIT, DR. MUKESH KUMAR GOYAL

Abstract

Background: Lumbar radicular syndrome (LRS) affects 3-5% of the population with significant economic burden. Current management typically delays physiotherapy until 6+ weeks post-diagnosis, potentially missing the critical neuroplasticity window for optimal recovery.

Objective: To compare early intervention physiotherapy (initiated ≤2 weeks) versus conventional delayed physiotherapy in patients with acute-to-subacute LRS across composite outcomes: pain, functional disability, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness.

Methods: Randomized controlled trial enrolling 150 participants (75 per group) with clinically confirmed LRS of <4 weeks duration. Group I receives intensive physiotherapy (2x/week for 4 weeks, then 1x/week for 8 weeks) initiated within 2 weeks of diagnosis. Group II receives standard medical care for 6 weeks, then identical physiotherapy delivered in compressed timeline. Primary outcome: pain reduction (Numerical Pain Rating Scale). Secondary outcomes: functional disability (Oswestry Disability Index), quality of life (SF-36), neurological assessment, cost-effectiveness analysis, and patient satisfaction.

Key Innovations: This study addresses a critical gap in early intervention research specific to LRS, examining composite outcomes rather than isolated pain or disability measures, and includes rigorous cost-effectiveness analysis informing healthcare resource allocation.

Expected Implications: This research will provide evidence-based guidance on optimal physiotherapy timing in acute LRS management and may support paradigm shift from delayed reactive treatment to early proactive intervention as standard care.

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IESRJ

International Educational Scientific Research Journal

E-ISSN: 2455-295X

International Indexed Journal | Multi-Disciplinary Refereed Research Journal

ISSN: 2455-295X

Peer-Reviewed Journal - Equivalent to UGC Approved Journal

Peer-Reviewed Journal

Article No : 19

Number of Downloads : 72

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