Utilization of mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT) for the treatment of lumbar pain in the presence of known lumbar transverse process fractures: a case study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Spinal fractures are typically considered a contraindication to mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT). OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: The purpose of this case study is to illustrate how MDT was used safely and effectively to treat lumbar pain in a patient with multiple lumbar transverse process fractures. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: The subject was a 24-year-old female with left L2-5 transverse process fractures, sustained 10 weeks prior in a pedestrian versus motor vehicle accident. INTERVENTION AND TECHNIQUE: After collaboration with her physiatrist, an MDT examination revealed a presentation consistent with the lumbar derangement syndrome. CONCLUSION: After three visits, utilizing patient generated forces with the extension principle of treatment, her pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, and function all improved.