Postural Control and Weight Bearing Symmetry Patterns in Patients Post Lumbar Spinal Decompression Surgery

Background Prolapsed intervertebral disc is one of the most common reasons for low back pain often causing altered postural control and weight bearing symmetry of foot. Although these components are known to be affected there is limited literature available explaining the postural control and weight bearing symmetry post spinal decompression surgical procedures.Objective The study was formulated with the objective to understand postural control and symmetry of weight bearing patterns among patients post lumbar spinal decompression surgery.Methods The study was conducted involving 65 patients who were assessed pre-and post-lumbar decompression surgery. Nintendo Wii balance board was used to assess the patients at all intervals.Results The post-surgical values at discharge showed a clinical improvement in postural control bilaterally left P0.068 and right P0.031 but showed deterioration at one month with right P0.076 and significant on left side P0.009. Contrary to this the follow up values at one month showed a significant improvement in weight bearing symmetry P0.001. Pain values both on activity and at rest taken at both follow-up intervals F1 and F2 showed a statistically significant reduction P0.001.Conclusion Postural control assessed with single limb stance shows worsening at one month post decompression procedure. Weight bearing symmetry parameters may demonstrate a decline immediately post lumbar decompression surgery but may show a significant improvement along with reduction in pain post surgically as early as one month.