Articles: low-back-pain.
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J Spinal Disord Tech · May 2008
Radiographic predictors of residual low back pain after laminectomy for lumbar spinal canal stenosis: minimum 5-year follow-up.
Retrospective study of patients who underwent laminectomy for unification. ⋯ Our results indicate that preoperative lordosis angle and lumbar ROM were the significant radiographic predictors for residual LBP after laminectomy for LCS. Patient with flatback and limited lumbar mobility before surgery are prone to suffer residual LBP. It is suggested that these sagittal radiographic parameters should be taken into account when choosing laminectomy as the surgical option for LCS.
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This article aims to provide more insight into the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of Bertolotti's syndrome, which is a rare spinal disorder that is very difficult to recognize and diagnose correctly. The syndrome was first described by Bertolotti in 1917 and affects approximately 4 to 8% of the population. It is characterized by an enlarged transverse process at the most caudal lumbar vertebra with a pseudoarticulation of the transverse process and the sacral ala. It tends to present with low back pain and may be confused with facet and sacroiliac joint disease. ⋯ As with conventional surgical approaches, a complete knowledge of anatomy is required for minimally invasive spine surgery. This case is an example of the expanding utility of minimally invasive approaches in treating spinal disorders.
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The aim of the study was to identify patient factors that correlate with a strong response to opioid pain medications in low back pain patients. ⋯ Social quality of life and symptom relief measurements comprise the optimal set of independent factors that correlate most strongly with a response to opioid use in low back pain patients.
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Mechanical low back pain secondary to degenerative facet joint changes is a common reason for referral to pain clinics. When these changes cause encroachment into the intervertebral foramen, radicular pain may result. While pulsed radiofrequency of the dorsal root ganglion can be used in this setting, the anatomic deformity may make the transforaminal approach difficult. We report a case where a trans-facet approach was used successfully and describe the technique.
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Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent pain condition associated with increased disability, lower quality of life, and poor relationship satisfaction. However, little research has examined the impact of the psychosocial environment in predicting relationship satisfaction among persons with CLBP. This study examined empirically supported psychosocial variables as potential mediators in the association between pain and relationship satisfaction. Patients with CLBP completed depression, partner support, pain, relationship satisfaction, pain catastrophizing, and pain-related fear measures (N = 54). Negative responses by a partner and depression were found to mediate the association between pain and relationship satisfaction, with negative responses emerging as the most important mediator. The current findings are consistent with a biopsychosocial framework of chronic pain and suggest that negative interpersonal interactions in patients with CLBP may be of central importance when considering psychosocial intervention. Theoretical and practical implications for treatment are discussed. ⋯ This study suggests that psychosocial variables, specifically depression and perceived negative partner responses, have a significant impact on relationship satisfaction among individuals with CLBP. These findings highlight issues integral to the social adjustment of patients with CLBP.