Abstract
[Purpose] We investigated the changes in strength of the lumbar area and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) of HNP patients in their early recovery stage after surgery before and after performance of an exercise program, minimal walking, or no exercise. [Subjects] Ninety-six (men=54, women=42) HNP patients who had received surgery were divided into 3 groups: the self-stretching and strengthening exercise group (SG), the walking group (WG), and the control group (CG). CG conducted no exercise. [Methods] WG walked for 10 minutes to 1 hours at a time. SG was permitted to walk under the same conditions as WG and also conducted an exercise program for 10 to 30 minutes at a time. The lumbar extension strength and ROM were measured before and after the exercise program. [Results] SG showed the most decreased disability and improved muscle strength and ROM. [Conclusion] Intensive exercise, for example, stretching and strengthening exercise, was effective for trunk function. However, more scientific research will be needed in the future.
