Case report of lumbar extension / rotation syndrome after suffering L1 compression fracture

Abstract

This case report demonstrates the diagnosis and management of a low back pain patient using the Movement System Impairment (MSI) diagnostic system. The patient was a 69 year-old female with low back pain after falling from a stepladder and suffering L1 compression fracture 2 months ago. Through a standardized movement examination, early and increased lumbar extension / rotation movements were identified as the cause of her low back pain exacerbation, which lead to the MSI diagnosis of Lumbar Extension / Rotation Syndrome. With a combination of in-person treatments and teletherapy treatments, treatments focused on progressing from simple isolated movements to functional movements, all with emphasis on preventing lumbar extension / rotation movement impairments. After 5 months of PT treatments at 1-2 times a week frequency, her symptom significantly decreased and she was able to resume her prior level of activities. Compared to her initial 10-15 minutes of standing tolerance, she was able to go shopping, perform gardening, and return to her decorating hobby without symptoms.