Greg Keith
Greg Keith 3/30/04 Therapeutic Exercise Herniated Disc: Theory on Rehabilitation Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints of society. The lower back is thought to be one of the most challenging body parts for athletic trainers and physical therapists to rehabilitate. An estimated 80% of the population suffers from at least one episode of lower back pain in their lifetime, and in approximately 50% of the cases, the problem reoccurs within the next 3 years (Shiple, 51). Back problems in athletes are usually caused by congenital, mechanical, and traumatic factors (Simpson et al, 57). Due to excessive forces transmitted through the trunk and lower extremities, mechanical failure of soft tissues and body structures can occur (Hall, 7). One of the most common injuries with the lower back is a disc herniation. An athlete who complains of low back pain that radiates int...