Acute L4 - L5 Discogenic Pain: A Case Study

Dr. Anisha Gulati

Abstract: A 42 - year - old manual laborer with a six - month history of low back pain (LBP) presented with worsening symptoms. His physically demanding job, involving repetitive lifting and bending, contributed to lumbar strain, with pain intensifying during these activities and alleviating at rest, suggesting mechanical pain. Clinical assessment revealed discogenic pain at the L4 - L5 level, indicated by a positive Straight Leg Raise (SLR) test and lumbar nerve root irritation. A conservative treatment plan focused on mobility exercises, core strengthening, and lumbar stabilization, resulting in significant pain reduction and improved function within a week. These findings highlight the effectiveness of tailored physical therapy for managing discogenic LBP, particularly for individuals in physically strenuous occupations.

Keywords: discogenic pain, low back pain, lumbar spine, core strengthening, physical therapy